Federal lawsuit seeks emergency order over Oregon gas tax referendum voter guide timeline

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Opponents of Oregon’s proposed gas tax hike are not giving up in their efforts to force the courts to intervene before voters’ pamphlets are sent out for the May primary.

Former state lawmaker and attorney Julie Parrish, along with Thomas Rask, filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Portland.

The suit was filed on behalf of the Right to Vote on the Gas Tax political action committee and several individuals and names Secretary of State Tobias Read as the defendant.

The suit requests an emergency hearing to consider a temporary restraining order.

The plaintiffs allege that shortening the timeline Oregonians had to submit arguments for or against the measure violated the rights of disabled voters.

Under Oregon law, residents must either collect 500 signatures or pay a $1,200 fee to submit an argument.

They also point out that Secretary of State Read warned lawmakers in a letter earlier this year that they were jeopardizing timelines by blowing past deadlines to pass the legislation.

A Marion County judge already ruled against the plaintiffs earlier this year, although a federal judge did issue a temporary restraining order.

PAST COVERAGE | Rulings on Oregon’s Gas Tax Referendum

Oregon lawmakers passed SB 1599 along party lines, moving the referendum from the November general election ballot to the May primary.

Democratic lawmakers contend that moving the referendum to an earlier date gives the state more time to consider budget cuts.

The gas tax hikes are widely expected to be rejected by voters regardless of when they are held.

No court date has been set for the latest lawsuit. KATU will continue to track developments.