• Measure 11 was an amendment to the state constitution approved by an overwhelming majority of Oregon voters in 1994. Voters also overwhelmingly rejected the repeal of much of Measure 11 in 2000 when they voted down Measure 94.
• If Oregonians truly want to change Measure 11, I believe they need to have the opportunity to make their voices heard via a ballot measure.
• Instead of supporting SB 1008, I voted in favor of two “Minority Reports.” A Minority Report is an alternatives to an underlying bill. Both of the Minority Reports that I supported would refer the legislation to the voters for their approval or rejection.
• One of the Minority Reports removed the most heinous of the Measure 11 crimes from the SB 1008 reforms and “second look” hearings. Murderers do not deserve such leniency. The other minority report simply refers SB 1008 as is to the voters to give all of you the opportunity to decide on the merits of the policy changes.
• Unfortunately, both minority reports were rejected by the majority party on the Floor of the House of Representatives.
• There are important and worthwhile conversations regarding how to balance punishment vs. reformation in juvenile justice. I wanted to give the same Oregonians who passed Measure 11 and rejected Measure 94 a chance to weigh-in on these important questions that directly affect Oregon’s youth and public safety.