Javadi Defends Vote on HB 3991 Despite Overwhelming Constituent Opposition

Rep. Cyrus Javadi Defends Vote on HB 3991 Despite Overwhelming Constituent Opposition

By Oregon Coast Sentinel

Oregon State Representative Cyrus Javadi (R–Tillamook) is weathering intense backlash from his district after casting a pivotal vote in favor of House Bill 3991, a sweeping transportation funding package that has ignited furious opposition across the coast and statewide.

An Avalanche of Opposition: Over 90% Against

Public testimony has been resoundingly clear: of more than 1,000 written submissions, over 940 were in opposition, translating to roughly 94% against and only about 2–3% in support. That overwhelming input has fueled anger among residents who say Javadi ignored their voices.

Critics highlighted the burden the measure would place on families and small businesses, especially those already struggling with rising costs. One constituent called it “a monster tax package” that disregards the economic realities Oregonians face.

Social Media Outrage

On platforms like Facebook and X, constituents have unleashed sharp criticism. Dozens accused Javadi of being out of touch with his district, with one viral comment reading:

“When 9 out of 10 Oregonians who speak up say ‘no,’ and you still vote yes, that’s not leadership — that’s disregard.”

Javadi’s Justification—and Its Limits

Rep. Javadi has stood firm, defending his vote as necessary for Oregon’s future.

“I think my job’s worth the handful of jobs it’s going to save in Astoria if it comes to that… or the hundreds more it’s going to save across the state,” Javadi said.

He has portrayed the decision as a matter of principle, but opponents say this explanation dismisses the overwhelming rejection from his own constituents. “Listening is part of leading—and he isn’t listening,” one critic noted.

Political Fallout

The controversy over HB 3991 is already raising questions about Javadi’s political future. With his seat up for re-election in 2026, the decision may prove a liability if voter frustration hardens into a broader movement against him.

Meanwhile, HB 3991 still faces hurdles in the Senate, where final votes have been delayed until later in September due to a senator’s medical leave.

What HB 3991 Proposes

The transportation package is designed to raise an estimated $4.3 billion over 10 years through a series of new taxes, fees, and structural changes:

• Gas tax increases by 6¢ per gallon, from 40¢ to 46¢
• Vehicle registration fees rise by $42, with title fees increasing by $139
• Electric vehicle owners face an additional $30 annual fee
• Public transit payroll tax doubles from 0.1% to 0.2% for two years, before reverting
• Mandatory per-mile road usage charges for electric and hybrid vehicles, with an opt-out through a flat annual fee
• New auditing requirements for ODOT
• Expanded Governor’s authority to appoint the ODOT director
• Other fee adjustments built into the package

Supporters argue these measures are needed to stabilize Oregon’s transportation funding system. But with over 90% of testimony against the bill, its opponents see it as another costly overreach from Salem—and Javadi’s defense of it may leave lasting scars in his coastal district.