Economic Forecast

Last week, economists from Office of Economic Analysis presented a summary of Oregon’s economy. This forecast is an important milestone in how the Legislature’s budgets begin to take shape. 

Overall, the outlook for the next two years is a mostly stable economy—also meaning stable revenue for the state. However, economists were quick to warn there are several factors — a war in Europe, rising interest rates, large corporate layoffs and inflation, to name a few — that mean their predictions could be incorrect. Matter of fact, the economists still expect some form of recession starting in 2024 but don’t know exactly what that might look like. 

Bottomline—the Legislature ought to be taking a prudent approach to budgeting, not spending taxpayer dollars with abandon. Moreover, legislators ought to put money in savings for future years where a strong and robust economy is not a certainty. The next few months will show us whether legislators are listening to the warnings of this economic drum beat.

Library Day

Every Long Session the State Library sponsors Library Day where legislators get to select a book to be placed in a local library. This year I chose, “What If, Pig?” a heartwarming story of a dynamic duo of Pig and Mouse. Pig learns how to turn his “what if" worries from anxiety to optimism, all with the help of his loving friend Mouse. This book will soon be available to check out at the La Pine Library.

Voting Age to 16?

This past week HJR 20 was heard in the House Committee on Rules. I signed up to testify against it, as it would lower the voting age in Oregon from 18 to 16. Part of my opposition was based on other prohibitions for 16 years olds, such as not being able to purchase alcohol, marijuana or tobacco products. There are also prohibitions to serve in the military until 18 years of age. Moreover, in Oregon, youth are treated differently than adults when it comes to prosecution and sentencing for crimes. Voting is not only a valuable right, it is also a major responsibility. We do not need to add children to the mix in making large political decisions for our states. 

We ought to give 16 year olds adequate time to mature. They are able to legally vote when they turn 18. Hopefully the committee heard this reasonable testimony and will not vote to move this resolution out of committee.

Your LIBERTY First

It is an honor to service the great people of Central & Southern Oregon. If you need assistance on a state matter, plan on visiting the Capitol or have an idea for legislation, please reach out to my office.

Best regards,

E. WERNER RESCHKE
State Representative, HD 55
The Crater Lake District

Capitol Phone 
(503) 986-1455

Capitol Address 
900 Court St. NE, H-383
Salem, OR 97301

Email
Rep.EWernerReschke@oregonlegislature.gov

Website
www.oregonlegislature.gov/reschke