An Update from Week Two

Updates from Senator Tim Knopp.

Senator Tim Knopp

Public Employee Retirement System

            Yesterday, we held a hearing in the Senate Workforce committee on Senate Bill 559 and Senate Bill 560 which are bills that I along with my Republican colleagues have introduced to address the long-term impact of the state's pension system on government finances and services at all levels. We heard from a number of different stakeholders including private citizens who know the importance of creating a more responsible and sustainable public pension system that works for citizens, employees, retirees, and government. We have an opportunity to make decisions that really work for the common good. These bills are a starting point and will be amended if other ideas surface.

     Bill Summaries:

  • SB 559 will change the calculation used to determine final average salary for 3 years to 5 years
  • SB 560 redirects employee contributions made to their IAP to be used to pay for their pension and caps the amount of salary used to calculate final average salary at $100,000. 


Oregon Senate Reads the US Constitution

Reading the Constitution

This session, I made a request to Senate President Peter Courtney that Oregon’s Senate read the United States Constitution on the Senate floor. This is something that has not happened in the chamber in decades. It is a great opportunity to remind legislators and citizens that our government was founded by and for the people.  

More Taxes and Fees Proposed

A few bills have been proposed early this session that would create new taxes and fees on citizens that are particularly egregious examples of Ronald Reagan's famous quote about Government's view of the economy, “If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.” One idea would create new fees and rules on river floaters that are onerous and are probably difficult to enforce in a fair and consistent manner. Two other proposals in the House Revenue Committee that would tax coffee and automobiles over 20 years old. I oppose both those bills and will work to defeat them. 

Budget Framework Town Halls

There is town hall series happening around the state that will focus on the budget. If you want to learn more about the budget and provide your input, consider attending one of the events. Here are the locations and times of the future town halls:

town halls


Shelly Smith – KIDS Center

I had the pleasure last week of meeting with Shelly Smith who is the Executive Director of the KIDS Center. The KIDS Center is a child abuse intervention center in Bend that gives children access to comprehensive family, medical, and therapy services to treat and prevent abuse. Thanks to all of Central Oregon for supporting the KIDS Center and their great work to protect kids. 

Shelly Smith

 

Best Regards,

tim-sig

Senator Tim Knopp 
Senate District 27


email: sen.timknopp@oregonlegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1727
address: 900 Court St NE, S-309, Salem, OR, 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/knopp