Oregon Public Broadcasting

A panel of 23 Oregonians has concluded a first-of-its-kind review of a complicated ballot initiative.

The volunteer group culled from across the state spent five days listening to arguments in favor, and against Measure 58.

That’s the initiative meant to limit teaching English as a second language to two years.

The 23 members split - 9 in favor, and 14 against.

McMinnville resident, Loreen Wallick, says she learned enough in three days, to be opposed to Measure 58.

Loreen Wallick: “Regarding this issue, it was about putting a time constraint on the amount of time that a child would be able to learn, and to become proficient, in English. I don’t believe you can put a time constraint on that.”

Measure 58 supporters emphasized problems with current programs, and the potential of English immersion, in their statement in favor.

Initiative sponsor, Bill Sizemore, was among those who testified to the panel in favor of Measure 58.

Language consultants and children's advocates spoke on the other side.

This week’s review of Measure 58 is a pilot effort for a group hoping to get lawmakers to fund similar initiative review panels in the future.