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SB 1502

Relating to proposed legislative measures to be filed by the Secretary of State; and prescribing an effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Bowman and 5 co-sponsors

Oregon SB 1502 grants the Secretary of State authority to file proposed legislative measures, expanding executive branch involvement in the legislative process.

Effective date, June 5, 2026.
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Bill Summary · SB 1502

Legislative bill overview

SB 1502 authorizes the Oregon Secretary of State to file proposed legislative measures, though the bill summary provided does not specify the exact nature, scope, or content of these measures. The bill has advanced through initial procedural steps with favorable committee recommendations and is currently awaiting further consideration.

Why is this important

The Secretary of State typically serves as the chief elections officer and keeper of state records rather than a legislative proponent. Granting this office authority to file legislative measures could represent a shift in institutional roles and the balance between executive and legislative branches. The practical impact depends entirely on what categories of measures the Secretary of State would be empowered to propose.

Potential points of contention

  • Separation of powers: Whether it is appropriate for an executive branch officer to directly initiate legislation, traditionally a legislative function
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill summary lacks detail on what types of measures qualify, potentially creating broad or undefined authority
  • Accountability mechanisms: Unclear what oversight or limitations would constrain which measures the Secretary of State could file

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

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