Oregon Constitution ARTICLE II SUFFRAGE AND ELECTIONS
Oregon Constitution – Article II: Suffrage and Elections
Overview:
Article II of the Oregon Constitution governs voting rights (suffrage) and the conduct of elections in the state. It outlines who can vote, how elections are to be held, and the qualifications and disqualifications for voters and public officials.
🔹 Key Sections and Provisions:
Section 1: Qualifications of Electors
Every U.S. citizen who is:
At least 18 years of age
A resident of Oregon
Registered as required by law
→ is entitled to vote in all elections.
Section 2: Voting Residency Requirements
A voter must be a resident of the precinct for a minimum period (as defined by law) before an election.
Section 3: Disqualification from Voting
A person may be disqualified from voting if:
They are mentally incompetent (as determined by a court).
They have been convicted of a felony and are currently incarcerated.
Section 6: Electors Privileged from Arrest
Voters are privileged from arrest on election day except for:
Treason
Felony
Breach of the peace
Section 7: Bribery and Corruption
Any person convicted of:
Bribery
Perjury
Forgery
Other crimes involving corruption
→ is disqualified from voting or holding public office.
Section 8: Time of Elections
General elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November in even-numbered years.
Section 14: Voting in New Precincts
Provides guidelines for voters who move to new precincts close to an election.
Section 16: Initiative and Referendum (Election Process)
Ensures laws governing the initiative and referendum process must be enacted in a way that facilitates rather than hinders citizen participation.
Section 18: Voting Rights Not Denied Based on Sex
Reinforces that no person can be denied the right to vote based on sex, consistent with the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
✅ Summary:
Article II affirms the fundamental right to vote for Oregon residents and lays out the rules and protections for participating in state and local elections. It addresses voter qualifications, disqualifications, election timing, and procedures, all while supporting broad democratic participation.
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