|
They say March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. At the Capitol in Salem, March gets increasingly busy as we enter April.
Taxes Galore
It has been full time job standing in opposition to all the new Democrat tax proposals — the new bottle deposit tax, tire tax, private insurance tax, increasing gas tax, income taxes and higher taxes on beer and wine. Apparently Democrat legislators in Salem do not yet think you pay enough in taxes. They seem to believe you are their legislative ATM, where they can go to get more money.
I disagree.
The dirty little secret is that Oregon’s General Fund & Lottery Funds budget are expected to grow by nearly 10%, without any new tax increases during the next budget cycle. Key Point—this increase amounts to over $2 billion in new tax revenue for the state. Sadly, Democrat politicians say they need more. The real problem with any state budget shortfall is not because we don’t pay enough tax revenue; instead, it is how the money collected is spent by the majority party.
Repeal The Wildfire Map
Repealing the Wildfire Map, created by SB 762 in 2021 has been a major emphasis of mine this session. SB 83 does that and more. You can read my letter to the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire encouraging the passage of this important legislation to right the wrongs caused by bad legislation.
Standing For Life
During March I testified in opposition to the SB 1003, a bill expanding Oregon’s assisted suicide law. I also testified in support of designating October 9th as Oregon Youth Suicide Awareness Day (HB 3643). Finally, I was able to participate in the Oregon Right To Life forum with my friend and colleague, Representative Court Boice.
Estate Tax
As Vice Chair of the House Revenue committee I continue to push for reform to Oregon’s Estate Tax policy. Currently, Oregon has the most punitive estate tax in the nation. What this means is that heirs of an estate in Oregon, including those modest by today’s standards, often have to pay unexpected taxes on their inheritance.
Visitors and Tours
My office had many visitors from Deschutes & Klamath counties during the month of March. To highlight a few, I saw the Realtors and students from the Oregon’s Youth ChalleNGe Program who were my guest and performed the color guard on the House floor.
I also had a visit by Klamath Community College President Dr. Roberto Gutierrez and staff, as well as KCC students.
Finally, I was able to spend a weekend in Deschutes county touring Central Oregon Community College with President Dr. Laurie Chesley, visiting with the new mayor of La Pine, Jeannie Earls, as well as touring MountainStar Relief Nursery and the High Desert Museum.
Now that we are in April, the Legislature will soon reach the 1st Chamber deadline. This means bills that have not been voted out of committee by Wednesday April 9th, will officially be dead for the Session. This culling will give clarity on what priorities remain for the remaining months until we adjourn in June.
Appointed as Assistant Leader
I was also appointed to the House Republican leadership team in March. I join my esteemed colleagues: Leader Christine Drazan, Deputy Leader Lucetta Elmer, Caucus Whip Virgle Osborne and assistant Leaders Shelly Boshart Davis, Emily McIntire and Mark Owens.
 It is an honor to serve the people of Central & Southern Oregon. If you need assistance with 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
|
