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Bill

Bill

HJR 10

Proposing an amendment to the Oregon Constitution relating to bonds for school district capital costs.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Owens

Oregon constitutional amendment allowing school districts to issue capital bonds without voter approval, eliminating current referendum requirements for infrastructure spending.

In committee upon adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HJR 10

Legislative bill overview

HJR 10 proposes a constitutional amendment that would authorize Oregon school districts to issue bonds for capital costs (buildings, infrastructure, equipment) without requiring voter approval through a traditional referendum. Currently, Oregon requires voter approval for most school bond measures. This amendment would modify that constitutional requirement.

Why is this important

School infrastructure funding is a persistent challenge in Oregon, with many districts facing aging buildings and deferred maintenance. Removing the voter approval requirement could accelerate capital project timelines and funding, but it fundamentally shifts decision-making power away from taxpayers who typically bear the cost through property taxes or other revenue sources.

Potential points of contention

  • Democratic accountability: Eliminating voter approval removes direct taxpayer input on spending that affects their property taxes and school budgets, raising concerns about representative democracy
  • Fiscal responsibility: Without voter gatekeeping, districts could issue bonds beyond local capacity to repay, potentially creating long-term debt burdens
  • Equity considerations: Some argue voter approval ensures community consensus, while others contend it delays needed repairs in under-resourced districts that lack strong organizing capacity for campaigns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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