The Sunday Oregonian published an editorial: EDITORIAL AGENDA 2018 – DEFUSE OREGON’S TICKING TIME BOMBS June 17, 2018

Grocers strike back in a tax sequel to Measure 97 – Editorial Agenda 2018

Excerpts:

Just two years ago, voters endured a knock-down, drag-out fight between businesses and public-employee unions over the union-backed Measure 97, which sought to impose a 2.5 percent gross-receipts tax on corporations with more than $25 million in annual Oregon sales.

Now, Oregon seems headed toward a sequel. Only this time, it’s corporations pushing the initiative.

Oregonians shouldn’t even be in this situation in the first place. This brawl over tax revenue stems directly from the lack of leadership by Gov. Kate Brown, Sen. Peter Courtney and House Speaker Tina Kotek in addressing the glaring dysfunction in Oregon’s spending and revenue systems.

So instead of leadership, Oregonians are getting a free-for-all. Businesses, unions, and others nervous about protecting their interests are appealing directly to voters, trying to persuade Oregonians that it’s in their interest to take their ideas and vote them into law.

Sound tax policy requires an attention to detail that a ballot measure designed around a catchy slogan simply cannot provide.

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Comments:

AMEN! The Oregonian is right this time. It’s now time to place revenue and tax reform – especially the broken property tax – on the front burner for the next legislative session. Gov. Brown: You needn’t wait for a prodding from former Portland city councilman Steve Novick to get motivated. We need you to take the initiative and start the ball rolling.