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Oregon Senate Approves $4.3 Billion Transportation Funding Package on Party-Line Vote

The vote is intended to prevent ODOT layoffs by supplying near-term funding.

Overview

  • The Senate passed HB 3991 on an 18-11 vote with all Republicans opposed after delays to ensure every Democratic senator, including Chris Gorsek, was present.
  • The plan raises the state gas tax by 6 cents per gallon and increases DMV charges, including higher registration and title fees.
  • Electric and hybrid vehicle owners must enroll in the OReGO road-usage system at 2.3 cents per mile or pay a $340 annual alternative.
  • Lawmakers project roughly $4.3 billion in revenue over 10 years, with near-term funds aimed at averting ODOT layoffs that had been postponed until Oct. 15.
  • Most fee changes take effect Jan. 1, 2026, with OReGO enrollment beginning in 2027 for electric vehicles and 2028 for hybrids, and the governor is expected to sign the bill promptly.