SB 489: Paying people to NOT WORK during summer break

By Taxpayers Association of Oregon
OregonWatchdog.com

As summer break approaches, Oregon schools face a challenging situation due to Oregon Senate Bill 489, passed in 2023. This legislation provides off-season benefits to classified school employees (like teacher assistants and bus drivers), leading to significant budgetary issues throughout the state. According to Willamette Week, the Oregon Department of Education reported that the number of school employees receiving at least one week of unemployment benefits between March 31 and December 31 surged by 151% from 2023 to 2024. Additionally, the total benefits paid to school employees increased by approximately 82% during the same period, rising from $11.5 million to $21 million.

Oregon will be paying people to not work during summer.   This will pull people away from the job pool at a time when Oregon needs workers.

House Minority Leader Christine Drazan has called for education reform, referencing a concerning report on the quality of education and the performance of Oregon students. The report indicates that the state’s school system is failing. With rising costs, it is time for a complete educational system reform in Oregon.

—  Contribute online at OregonWatchdog.com (learn about a Charitable Tax Deduction or Political Tax Credit options to promote liberty).