​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Pursuant to ORS 251.205-215​​, a five-member Explanatory Statement Committee (ESC) is appointed for each potential ballot measure to draft an impartial, simple, and understandable statement of 500 words or less that explains each ballot measure. Once completed, the explanatory statement will be printed in the Voters' Pamphlet if the measure qualifies for the ballot.

The chief petitioners of the ballot measure (or legislative leaders for referrals) select two supporters of the measure to serve on the committee, and the Secretary of State selects two opponents of the measure to serve on the committee. Those four members then select a neutral fifth member, or if they cannot agree, the Secretary of State selects the fifth member.

Explanatory Statement Committee Process

Explanatory statements are prepared by the Explanatory Statement Committee and the Legislative Counsel Committee. If the Committee fails to adopt an explanatory statement the one drafted by the Legislative Counsel Committee is printed in the voters’ pamphlet. The initial explanatory statement must be filed by July 27, 2026.

A public hearing is also held to accept public comments in late July. Suggested changes or other relevant information may be submitted orally or in writing at the hearing. Written comments can be submitted to the Secretary of State at any time before the close of the public hearing.

The committee must consider suggested changes and any other information submitted through the public hearing or through public comments.

Committee Meetings

Committee meetings have not been scheduled at this time. To be notified when a meeting is scheduled, you can sign up for email notices here​.

Key Contacts

For questions on the ESC, please contact FEC.ESC@sos.oregon.gov​​.​

For questions on the general ballot measure process, contact the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division at 503-986-1518 or elections.sos@sos.oregon.gov.