OREGON HOUSE REPUBLICANS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Nick Smith
August 26, 2011	503-986-1351

HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER COMMENTS

ON SEPTEMBER REVENUE FORECAST

SALEM— House Republican Leader Kevin Cameron (R-Salem) had the following to say regarding the September 2011 economic and revenue forecast.  The forecast suggests total anticipated general and lottery fund resources for the 2011-2013 biennium will be $199 million less than expected at the close of the 2011 legislative session:

“During the 2011 session, Republicans insisted on setting aside significant reserves in the current budget.   When some pressured the Legislature to spend everything, we wisely reserved $460 million to protect Oregon in the event of a faltering economic recovery. 

“Ways and Means Co-Chair Dennis Richardson and leaders from both parties deserve credit for their foresight. During these uncertain times, these prudent reserves may prove critical in protecting essential services this biennium.

“Most importantly, this forecast shows that Oregon families and businesses continue to struggle in this economy.  House Republicans will return to the Capitol in February with proposals to put Oregonians back to work.  These proposals include providing incentives to businesses that hire unemployed workers, reducing excessive regulations on businesses seeking to locate and expand in Oregon, and providing tax relief to families and low-income Oregonians.”

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