Others who work on initiative petitions panned the proposal as anti-democratic, and argued only rich interests would succeed in qualifying measures if it passed. They pointed out that Oregon has seen comparatively few citizen-initiated measures qualify for the ballot in recent years — just two each in 2024 and 2022, compared to 18 in 2000.

Superintendent Kimberlee Armstrong said she welcomes added scrutiny about how hers and other school districts are spending tax dollars, but believes calls for improved student outcomes should be backed by significant financial investments.

Gov. Tina Kotek has been saying for months that Oregon’s public schools need more money, and they need to be held accountable for better academic outcomes. Now, her efforts may