Side Bars – Our Obligations – The Purpose of Civil Government – The Witness of the Reformational Church to the Role of the Civil Magistrate – Closing Exhortation

Ballot Recommendations Summary Measure 26 Measure 27 Measure 28 Measure 29 Measure 30 Measure 31 Measure 32 Measure 33 Measure 34 Measure 35 Measure 36 Measure 37 Measure 38 Measure 39 Measure 40 Measure 41 Measure 42 Measure 43 Measure 44 Measure 45 Measure 46 Measure 47 Measure 48

Measure 48
Amends Constitution: Instructs State, Federal Legislators to Vote for Congressional Term Limits

At first glance, this Measure seems intended to restore a “citizen” Legislature, and hold our elected officials accountable. There is, as far as we know, no prohibition in the Bible to limiting terms of Legislators. In fact, the idea of a “citizen legislature” seems more like the civil polity of the nation of Israel in the Old Testament than what we have today. But the best way to accomplish this in our day seems to be to first restrict the civil government’s sphere of activity, then send the Legislators home for most of the year. With the federal government still growing larger and larger, the practical effect of this Measure would be to further empower the Administrative branch as novice Legislators would rely increasingly on the advice of the experienced bureaucrats. This is the reverse of what we have said we should be doing, which is cutting back on bureaucratic excesses. Additionally, there is good reason to believe that this and like Measures being voted on around the country may be used to call a constitutional convention, which would pose a real and present danger to our constitution and our very way of governance. We therefore strongly recommend a NO vote on this Measure.

"Yes" vote instructs state, federal legislators to vote for congressional term limits in federal constitution.

"No" vote rejects instruction to legislators to vote for congressional term limits in federal constitution.

SUMMARY: Amends Oregon Constitution. Instructs state legislators, members of Oregon congressional delegation to vote for federal constitutional amendment setting congressional term limits. Limits would be 2 Senate terms, 3 House terms. Secretary of State must review incumbents' records for compliance. Violators' names labeled on ballot with statement, "DISREGARDED VOTERS' INSTRUCTION ON TERM LIMITS." Non-incumbents must sign term limits pledge or have name on ballot labeled, "DECLINED TO PLEDGE TO SUPPORT TERM LIMITS." Allows electors, candidates expedited appeal of Secretary of State's decision to Oregon Supreme Court.

This voters' guide produced by Parents Education Association, PAC.