Article IV, Section 2 thru 4 of the Oregon State Constitution

We take a look, in this post, at Article IV of the Oregon State Constitution.

Section 2 defines that there should be about 2 state representatives for each state senator.  Currently, in the state legislature, there are 30 senators and 60 representatives which are the maximum allowed by law.  This map lets you figure out who represents you.

Section 3 first indicates that representatives and senators are elected by the electors residing in the area that they represent.  Originally, it had been thought to make representation boundaries run along county lines.  I think that to the extent possible, this is still done.  However, this is not always possible.  There is a mechanism to fill seats that become vacant.  Section (2)(b) and (2)(c) talk about residency requirements.  (b) specifies one year.  (c) notes that if redistricting happens, then (b) is modified for appointments.

Section 4 defines the length of the terms.  Here one good thing is that senators are split into two groups and these two groups are alternately up for election.  Senators are elected for 4 years and representatives for 2.  Oregon only holds state-wide elections every 2 years, unless there is a need for some special election as determined by the legislature.