Important Information About ODOT

We want to update you about what’s happening with a signature gathering effort that would have an impact on the Oregon Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) ability to keep roads safe for Oregonians.

An organization known as No Tax Oregon is collecting signatures to put a measure on the 2026 general election ballot to repeal sections of the ODOT funding package the legislature approved in September. If the group is able to gather enough signatures to qualify for the ballot, none of the new resources included in the transportation package will go forward. And what’s worse, because only some of the bill is being repealed, what’s left could actually make the ODOT budget hole even worse if it passes.

This means ODOT – during its busiest season when staff are working to keep roads safe – could be facing drastic budget cuts and layoffs. While we don’t yet know what those cuts will look like, we are trying to get more information from ODOT.  Our priority is to protect jobs. This referral will increase the budget hole and continue to keep ODOT in crisis.

But let’s be clear: there is no way that ODOT can endure cuts that won’t also have a negative impact on safety to Oregonians. 

We are closely watching what No Tax Oregon is doing to ensure they will be held accountable to follow the law.

What you can do over the next few weeks:

• If you see people gathering signatures, don’t sign the petition, and ask your friends and family not to sign either.
• Watch how volunteers handle the petition forms. Some reports say forms are being left out or not handled correctly, which is not allowed. Use this link to report any problems.

We will keep sharing information with you and the public about what losing funding for ODOT would mean. This issue is about keeping Oregon’s roads safe, especially in rural areas. Without enough funding, there may not be enough staff to maintain roads during dangerous winter storms.

If you have questions, please email us here.