In the spring, the Oregon Legislature passed a law that would create a new four-year driver’s card for those who live in Oregon and otherwise qualify for a driver’s license, but are unable to prove legal residency. The bill was backed by a coalition of business, faith, labor and law enforcement groups, including the Oregon Association of Nurseries. It was supported by the governor’s office as well as legislators from both parties.

On Friday, a group opposed to the law turned in just over 70,000 signatures in an attempt to refer the law to the voters. State officials are now in the process of verifying the signatures using a sampling method, while observers from both sides watch carefully. The group needs 58,142 valid signatures to get the measure on the November 2014 ballot. Otherwise, the law is scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2014.

We should know the outcome of the signature verification process by the end of the week.