Yes to amendment to stop the dreaded, harmful pre-school tax

By Dr. Eric Fruits,
Oregon economist

I urge support for the “Dash 3” amendment to SB 106.

This bill, as amended, would take the critical step of phasing out Multnomah County’s “Preschool for All” program and its associated income tax, replacing it with a system that aligns with state standards. I believe this change is essential for the economic health and stability of our county and the well-being of its residents.

The “Preschool for All” program is funded by a targeted income tax with severe and entirely foreseeable consequences. This tax has placed a significant financial burden on higher-income households, making it one of the primary reasons many choose to leave Multnomah County for lower-tax jurisdictions. This exodus of residents erodes our tax base, harms local businesses, and ultimately reduces the resources available for all essential public services, creating a negative cycle that harms our entire community.

By supporting the amended SB 106, lawmakers can help fix this situation. Phasing out the county-specific tax and program in favor of a state-aligned system will not only stop the flight of high-income residents but also ensure a more sustainable and equitable approach to early childhood education. Lawmakers should vote in favor of these crucial amendments and help secure a more prosperous future for Multnomah County.