On April 21st, the Joint Committee on Ways and Means will hold the third of five “roadshow” hearings at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg.
Ahead of the hearing, Fair Shot for All Coalition Director Heather Stuart issued the following statement on the state budget:
“As legislative leaders determine the state budget for the next biennium, they are determining the future of our state’s economy and our communities’ wellbeing. Will they step in to address the urgent crises facing our communities and invest in programs and priorities that lay a foundation for economic growth and shared prosperity? Or will they leave Oregonians high and dry as our families continue to navigate the effects of inflation, a housing crisis, food insecurity, fentanyl overdoses, and income inequality? The longer we ignore the challenges we face, the more it will cost to address them.
“Our past wisdom in creating and growing a rainy day fund has given us the ability to create opportunities for Oregon families, while at the same time being prepared for an uncertain economic future. The reality is that Oregon’s rainy day fund is well-funded at levels above the national average. To strengthen our economy and create more resilient and financially stable communities, we need to continue investing in our communities instead of squirreling away reserves at unnecessary levels. “
The Co-Chairs Budget Framework currently leaves out critical community-led investments, policies, and workforce support outlined in the People’s Budget. While a relatively small investment compared to the overall state budget, these priorities will go a long way toward making our state a safer, healthier, and equitable place to live.
“This opportunity is clear, and so are the risks: the legislature will be doing harm to Oregonians and our state’s economy if they pass a budget that cuts support and services. We have high expectations for our leaders and we’ll continue showing up to make sure they do the right thing for Oregon.”
About Fair Shot for All
Since its launch in 2014, Fair Shot for All has been committed to taking on discrimination and inequality through policy, organizing, and action. The coalition’s work is centered on ideas and input from those who bear the burden of Oregon’s broken systems, especially those who identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or people of color (BIPOC); women; immigrants; and/or LGBTQ+.