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Dear Neighbors,
There were a couple of big announcements made this past week concerning Oregon's future that I'd like to share with you.
Oregon Education Investment Initiative
Oregon is facing years of painful cuts to our classrooms if we don't take action now. That's why lawmakers unveiled a bold proposal last week to reform Oregon's business tax structure and invest in education, called the "Oregon Education Investment Initiative". It would raise more than $2 billion, with at least three-quarters of those funds dedicated to education.
Under the plan, Oregon's current corporate income tax would be replaced by a commercial activity tax of 0.95% on Oregon sales over $5 million. The plan also includes $200 million in tax relief for low and middle-income households. Additionally, it would bring stability to school funding by reducing Oregon's reliance on personal income taxes. What makes this proposal unique is that it dedicates funding directly to schools and streamlines our outdated corporate tax code.
This funding could add weeks to the school year, reduce class sizes, and allow districts to restore educational programs - including vocational and technical training - that have been cut since the recession.
Click here to view the full presentation of the plan, and check out my video where I explain the proposal in detail.
Proposed Transportation Package
Earlier this week, a proposed transportation package was unveiled that would update Oregon's aging transportation infrastructure, increase capacity on congested highways, and expand access to public transportation and pedestrian/bike routes.
Projects in the proposal include widening and retrofitting the Abernethy Bridge on I-205 and widening I-205 between Stafford Road and Oregon City. The package would be funded through a combination of gas taxes, title and registration fees, and a tax on new bicycle and vehicle sales.
As always, I'd like to hear your thoughts - let me know what you think by responding to this email or giving my office a call at (503) 986-1440. Your feedback is valuable to me as your representative and voice in Salem.
Finally, all constituents are invited to join me for coffee and conversation on Saturday, May 20th at 9 AM at Weathervane Coffee House in Oregon City. I hope you can make it!
Yours truly,
 Mark Meek
State Representative - Oregon House District 40
On Monday, I held a town hall in Oregon City about transportation. The proposed transportation package was announced the same day, which made it a timely discussion.
 Some great questions were asked and I received a lot of valuable feedback. Thank you to our panel of local experts who added a lot to the conversation: Mike Bezner (Clackamas County Department of Transportation), Vanessa Vissar (Trimet), Andrew Plambeck (ODOT), and John Lewis (Oregon City Public Works).
Last week I attended the Loyalty Day flag retirement ceremony at VFW #1324 in Oregon City. Recognized since 1958, the day is set aside for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States and the recognition of the heritage of American freedom.
Last Friday I had the honor of touring the Blanton House in Milwaukie. Part of the Albertina Kerr network of services, Blanton House serves families and adults facing mental health challenges and developmental disabilities. I really enjoyed meeting the staff and residents.
On Saturday May 20th I will be hosting coffee and conversation at Weathervane Coffee House. All constituents are welcome to attend!
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1440
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-285, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.MarkMeek@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/meek
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