Dems block repeal of Measure 67 tax

Oregon Senate Republicans tried to repeal one of the worst Measure 67 taxes; one of the SIX Measure 67 taxes and fees – a gross receipts (sales) tax – that is costing businesses up to $100,000 a year, even if they don’t make a profit, even if they lose money. Democrats, who control the Senate, blocked their attempt – killing the creation of 2,000 jobs.

Oregon Senate Republicans

Salem, OR – After two weeks of no leadership in the Senate on Oregon’s unemployment problem, Senate Republicans forced a vote on Senate Bill 1573 Monday morning.  Senate Bill 1573 ends Oregon’s sales tax on small businesses.

“It’s Monday and everyone should have a job on Monday,” said Senator Alan Olsen (R-Canby), who introduced the legislation and led the floor fight.  “This legislature’s very first priority should be ensuring that Oregonians can find family wage jobs.   Unfortunately, creating a robust economic environment seems to be the one issue leadership doesn’t want to address.”

Senate Republicans used a procedural motion to force Senate Bill 1573 to the floor, where it was defeated on a party line vote. Republicans believe that a gross receipts tax unfairly punishes employers that have high gross sales but little or no profits.  The bill would end the inequitable sliding scale that can charge businesses as much as $100,000 simply for doing business in Oregon, regardless of profitability.  In its place Olsen’s bill would put a simple flat $150 minimum tax and reduce the tax rate charged on a business’ taxable income.

“This is a simple way we can get Oregon employers back into the business of creating jobs,” said Olsen.  “It gives employers the tools they need to expand and grow.”

According to conservative estimates by the Legislative Revenue Office, the bill would create almost 2,000 jobs over the next five years and put $314 million back into the pockets of Oregon entrepreneurs.

“Unfortunately, procedural maneuvers seem to be the only way to get attention on substantial jobs legislation in the Senate,” said Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli (R-John Day).  “A number of ideas contained in our Blueprint for Prosperity can inject vitality into Oregon’s economy if they have the chance to become law.”
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