What is it?

This initiative would eliminate the double majority requirement that is imposed on local property tax measures such as bonds to build or refurbish schools or other public buildings. The double majority has caused property tax measures to fail, even when they gain a majority of the votes cast.

Where did it come from?

Measure 56 was referred to the voters by the Oregon Legislature. It gained the votes of a broad coalition, across party lines.

Since enactment of the double majority, via an initiative in 1996, there have been 169 cases of property tax proposals being “approved” by a majority of votes cast, but actually failing because more than 50 percent of the registered voters did not cast ballots. These included public safety measures (fire, police, emergency services), as well as public schools proposals.

What it would do:

School districts and municipalities may now escape the double majority requirement by holding their election on November in a general election year – in other words, once every two years.

Under Measure 56, instead of having to wait for the November election to obtain a simple majority, local taxing districts will have two opportunities per year to pass property tax increases by a simple majority.

Reality check:

The prime argument for the double majority was the belief that property tax increases were put on the ballot in “surprise” elections. At that time, eight election dates throughout the year were available to local taxing districts.

Three things have changed. Now there are only four election dates per year. Secondly, Oregon has gone to all-mail ballots, which greatly lessens the notion that such elections are surprises. Finally, there is a requirement that when property tax measures are on the ballot, the envelope containing the ballot be emblazoned with a notice about the ballot containing a property tax increase.

Check the fine print:

Measure 56 has no financial effect. It is supported by a broad array of organizations across Oregon, including a heavy representation by public safety organizations.

Recommendation:

Yes. Majority rule is the basis of democracy. The double majority concept has created a strange incentive to reward people who don’t vote. Opponents of certain property tax measures have encouraged people not to vote for that reason. That is a warped, unhealthy approach to community and democracy.