Governor Kotek's Special Session on $4.3 Billion Dollar Increases in Taxes and Fees to Fund ODOT
Hello Friends,
Governor Kotek called for a Special Legislative Session to Increase $4.3 Billion in Taxes and Fees to fund Oregon Department of Transportation operations, that the Democrat Supermajority failed to pass in the 2025 Legislative Session.
Submitted Testimony in Opposition
Republicans put forward multiple amendments to Governor Kotek's Transportation Tax Package. Senate Republicans offered two amendments before the final vote on the Senate Floor. Read the Press Release by Clicking Here.
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The -9 amendment would have given ODOT flexibility to use the money it already has in the budget where it is needed most, such as plowing snow, repairing potholes, and maintaining guardrails.
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The -5 amendment would have referred Kotek’s tax hike to the people, allowing Oregonians the final say on whether to shoulder $4.3 billion in new taxes.
Both of these amendments were rejected by the Democrat Supermajority.
Click Here to watch Senate Republican Leader Starr's Comments.
Click Here to watch Senator David Brock Smith's Comments.
Click Here to watch news story on the $4.3 Billion Dollar Legislation.
Click Here to read Senate Republican Press Release regarding passage.
Media About Governor Kotek's $4.3 Billion Dollar Tax and Fee Increases
Click the Headline Below to read the Article
Republicans attempted to negotiate a bipartisan package in good faith, only to be rejected by Governor Kotek and her Democrat Supermajority. Oregonians are struggling to make ends meet and these rising taxes and fees will hurt working families across the state. We urge the Governor to Veto the bill and convene Republicans and Democrats to negotiate a bipartisan package where the voices of all Oregonians may be heard.
My colleagues and I will continue to work against Governor Kotek and her Democrat Supermajority's efforts to increase the cost of living on Oregonians, their communities and the businesses that support them.
If you would like to read more information from the District, please Click Here.
It continues to be truly an honor and privilege to work with and for the residents, their businesses and communities of Senate District 01, in the Oregon State Senate.
As always, please be safe and God Bless you, your family and your neighbor.
Yours Truly,
 Senator David Brock Smith
Together, We Will Build a Better Oregon
 Senate District 1
Curry, Coos, and Douglas Counties
Southwest Oregon’s Fish, Farm, and Forestry District.
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1701
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, S-316, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Sen.DavidBrockSmith@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/smithd
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