Next Up Endorses Ballot Measures 107, 108 and 110
Voting on ballot measures is the moment that we as Oregonians help write the laws in our state. Make sure to vote with us on critical issues when your ballot arrives. Not sure how to vote on these measures? No worries. Next Up has recommendations on the issues that impact young people and racial justice in our state. Join us in voting YES on these measures!
Yes on Measure 108 — Yes for a Healthy Future: Measure 108 protects the Oregon Health Plan by establishing the first vape tax in Oregon and bringing our tobacco taxes more in line with neighboring West Coast states. People are suffering from vaping-related illnesses while tobacco companies target youth with candy-flavored vapes. Research shows young people who vape are almost three times more likely to start smoking. But Oregon does not tax vapes one penny. Many of the people we serve have historically experienced barriers to getting the care they need, but Ballot Measure 108 would decrease those barriers by securing funding for the Oregon Health Plan.
Yes on Measure 107 — Fair and Honest Elections: For Next Up, democracy has long been a top priority. We have redesigned our election systems to make Oregon the number one easiest state to vote in. And yet, our lack of campaign finance limits challenges the voice of everyday Oregonians. Ballot Measure 107 would amend the Oregon Constitution to allow laws and voter initiatives that require the disclosure of political contributions and spending; limit campaign contributions and spending; and require political ads to disclose who paid for them. This measure will not only allow us to shine a light on the special interests trying to influence our votes, it will also help get big money out of politics by limiting campaign contributions.
Yes on Measure 110 — More Treatment. A Better Oregon: Oregonians who want drug treatment or recovery services should be able to access it, regardless of how much money they have or how they are insured. Ballot Measure 110 would expand access around the state to drug addiction treatment and recovery services, paid for with a portion of taxes from legal marijuana sales. Instead of being arrested or jailed for possession of small amounts of drugs, people would be connected to the right treatment to help get their lives back on track. According to an independent racial and ethnic impact statement released by the Oregon Secretary of State and conducted by the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission, Measure 110 would significantly reduce racial and ethnic disparities in drug arrests and convictions. For example, disparities in drug arrests would drop by 95%.