The Elders in Action Commission regularly reviews ballot measures and votes on whether to support, oppose or stay neutral on each measure. In September, they reviewed statewide ballot measures and one City of Portland measure, to determine their stands on each. Below are their endorsements.

In addition to the Commission endorsements and the voter pamphlet mailed to your home, many ballot measures have own web sites developed by opponents and proponents. For Measure 90 and 92, see the Citizen Initiative Review Commission recommendations.

The following are the Elders in Action Commission endorsements:

Measure 88: Drivers Card – “Safe Roads”

A law creating a four-year driver’s card, shorter than the usual eight years for a driver’s license, for those who meet all qualifications other than proof of legal residence in the United States. This legislation was passed by the 2013 Legislature but citizen opponents obtained enough signatures to refer it to voters for confirmation. A “yes” vote passes it and authorizes the card; a “no” vote rejects it. Elders in Action’s Commission Position: Support

Measure 89:

Equal Rights Amendment
A constitutional amendment specifically barring discrimination based on gender, a state version of the Equal Rights Amendment for women’s rights once proposed for the U.S. Constitution.Twenty-two states have similar ERA provisions.
Elders in Action’s Commission Position: Support

Measure 90:

Top Two Elections

A law changing Oregon’s primary election process, which dates to 1904. Instead of registered voters within the two major political parties choosing party nominees, the measure would allow the top two finishers in an all-comers primary to advance to the general election, regardless of party affiliation. California, Washington and Louisiana use top-two primaries.
Elders in Action’s Commission Position: Oppose

Measure 91: Marijuana Initiative

A law legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, based on regulation and taxation to be determined by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission. A version failed in 2012, the same year voters in Washington and Colorado approved their own measures. A similar measure is up for a vote in Alaska.
Elders in Action’s Commission Position: Support

Measure 92: GMO Labeling
A law requiring the labeling of genetically engineered foods produced and sold in Oregon. Voters in Jackson and Josephine counties approved bans on genetically modified organisms in May, 2014. Vermont is the only state with such a law, but it is being challenged in court.

Elders in Action’s Commission Position: Support

Measure 26-159: City of Portland Parks Bond
This measure would allow the City of Portland to issue up to $68 million in general obligation bonds for capital costs, including repairs and improvements, of facilities owned or operated by Portland Parks & Recreation. A tax of $.0877/1000 in assessed value is in place now but expires in 2015. This measure would extend this tax.
Elders in Action’s Commission Position: Support

For additional information regarding ballot measures go to the Multnomah County Elections Web Page ballot measure summaries.

Elder Financial Abuse

Listening & Learning Session

Please join Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum and Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish for an informative panel discussion on Elder Financial Abuse.

Thursday, November 6^th from 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Q Center, 4115 N. Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR

This event is for older Oregonians and those who care for them. Join us to learn more about:

What is Financial Abuse?
How can I protect myself from becoming a victim?
Where can I report concerns or find recources for support?

RSVP at 503-235-5474 or by email info@eldersinaction.org

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the event to Ellen Klem at (503) 507-1061 / ellen.klem@doj.state.or.us.