Rep. Reschke: Capitol update on budget, taxes, more

By State Representative E. Werner Reschke
Newsletter excerpt

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.