Bill > SJR16

This resolution proposes an amendment to the Oregon Constitution that would eliminate the death penalty for aggravated murder. Specifically, the proposed constitutional change removes the existing language that allowed for capital punishment and replaces it with a blanket prohibition: "A sentence of death may not be imposed or executed." Currently, the state constitution permitted the death penalty when a jury unanimously voted in favor of such a sentence for aggravated murder. By submitting this amendment, the Oregon Legislative Assembly is seeking voter approval to permanently ban capital punishment in the state. If approved by voters at the next regular general election, this amendment would effectively end the death penalty in Oregon, replacing it with alternative sentencing such as life imprisonment with a minimum mandatory sentence.

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SJR16