Representative Darcey Edwards Responds to Revenue Forecast: “Oregon Deserves Better”

BANKS, Ore. – Representative Darcey Edwards (R–HD 31) released the following statement today in response to Oregon’s September revenue forecast, which projects rising unemployment and declining revenues:

“The latest revenue forecast is more than a set of numbers—it’s a wake-up call for Oregon. Rising unemployment, declining revenues, and families struggling with the cost of living are symptoms of a larger problem: years of misplaced priorities in Salem.

While some will try to blame the President and federal government, the truth is Oregon’s economy and leadership have been struggling for years. This isn’t a new problem—it’s just the latest excuse to point fingers elsewhere rather than take responsibility for failed decisions here at home.

Instead of focusing on fiscal responsibility and policies that support jobs, affordability, and stability, too many decisions have been driven by political agendas here in Oregon. The results are plain to see—businesses closing or leaving, schools losing students, and families wondering if they can build a future here at all.

Oregonians deserve leadership that faces these challenges honestly and offers solutions rooted in common sense, not partisanship. We need to lower the burden on families, give businesses room to grow, and make Oregon a place where people want to stay and thrive.

Now, instead of confronting the failures that led us here, Legislators are being called back to the Capitol on Friday to vote on whether Oregonians should have to shoulder a $5.8 billion tax increase. This is the direct result of failed leadership, a lack of accountability, and too many in Salem taking advantage of hardworking families for far too long. It’s not right, and it’s not sustainable. Oregon deserves better.” 

Throughout her time in the legislature, Rep. Edwards has fought for policies that strengthen Oregon’s economy by making it easier for families to afford to live here and for businesses to create and sustain good-paying jobs. She has worked to reduce unnecessary costs, protect local industries, and promote innovation—always with the goal of ensuring Oregon’s economy is built to last.

During the 2025 session, Rep. Edwards:

• Co-sponsored SB 485, a bipartisan reform to Oregon’s forestland estate tax that protects working forests and family-owned timber operations from being taxed out of existence — a major win for rural Oregon and natural resource jobs. Status: Passed by the legislature.
• Opposed HB 2092, which would have disconnected Oregon from the federal tax code and created costly uncertainty for families, small businesses, and accountants forced to navigate two sets of tax rules. Status: Failed in the Senate.
• Opposed HB 2081, which attempted to force the State Treasurer to divest from reliable energy sources and redirect investments into politically favored industries — putting politics ahead of returns for taxpayers. Status: Passed by the legislature.
• Opposed HB 2809, which would have raised costs on farmers and resource-sector employers, threatening family-wage jobs and hurting rural economies. Status: Passed by the legislature.
• Opposed HB 3940, a new tax on ZYN and other nicotine products — another measure that would have further burdened working Oregonians. Status: Passed by the legislature.

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About Representative Darcey Edwards
Darcey Edwards represents House District 31, which includes Columbia County and portions of Washington, Multnomah, and Yamhill counties. A small business owner, community advocate, wife and mother, and lifelong resident of Northwest Oregon,

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1431
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-374, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.DarceyEdwards@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/edwards