Republicans Say 'Job-Killing Tax Increase' Define 2009 Session

Republicans Accomplish Many Goals on Session Agenda.

Oregon State Capitol Photo: Kevin Hays

(SALEM, Ore.) - As the 2009 Legislature adjourns, House Republicans say permanent job-killing tax increases will define a session that was dominated by a deep economic recession. With the second highest unemployment rate in the nation, they say actions taken by the Legislature this year will threaten the state’s ability to recover.

“During this recession, the 2009 Legislature passed tax and fee increases that will kill jobs and further slow our state’s economic recovery,” said House Republican Leader Bruce Hanna (R-Roseburg).

“This Legislature will be defined by its failure to create an environment where the private sector can create jobs for Oregonians.”

“It’s unfortunate that the Legislature raised taxes and increased debt to create few short-term jobs, while ignoring other job creating opportunities- such as the Main Street Incentive Plan- driven by private sector investments and business activity.”

House Republicans say the 2009 session was especially hostile to Oregon businesses, which will bear the full brunt of the tax and fee increases passed this session. The caucus is especially concerned about the $733 million increase in income and corporate taxes.

Republicans say they believe the income tax increase will hurt small business owners and drive others out of state, while the corporate tax increase will increase costs to businesses whether they’re profitable or not.

In a news release they stated, "Higher taxes will mean higher prices for Oregonians, and the tax increases will likely make the state's unemployment situation even worse."

“It’s disappointing that the Legislature chose to hurt businesses at a time when most industrial sectors have shed thousands of jobs,” said Deputy Republican Leader Kevin Cameron (R-Salem).

“In addition to massive tax increases and excessive regulation, Oregon businesses will be exposed to endless and costly litigation. This session has sent the wrong message to businesses as they decide whether to locate here, stay in operation, or move to other states where their jobs would be more welcome.”

House Republicans say they are proud of several positive accomplishments this session, including new laws to help Oregon veterans and laws to protect students at school. House Republicans also fought to protect funding for the Oregon State Police and important senior’s programs.

“House Republicans arrived in Salem with an agenda to boost Oregon’s economy, increase government accountability, improve education, enhance public safety, and pass additional reforms,” said Republican Whip Ron Maurer (R-Grants Pass).

“We accomplished many of the goals on our agenda, and worked with Democrats to produce many other bipartisan accomplishments. Unfortunately, these accomplishments will be overshadowed by tax increases and other partisan laws that will inflict long-term damage to Oregon's economy.”

Source: Oregon Legislature