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House Republicans Believe Slow Economic Growth is Unacceptable

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:14:37 +0100

SALEM—House Republicans today said Oregon’s stagnating economy is unacceptable,

and the Legislature must take action to protect jobs and boost economic growth. In light

of today’s “flat” revenue and economic forecast, the state should also take immediate

steps to bring new government spending under control.

“We are not satisfied with an economy that has little or no job growth,” said House

Republican Leader Bruce Hanna (R-Roseburg). “Rather than devoting the 2009 session

to raising taxes and increasing spending, the Legislature must focus on gearing our tax

system to improve the economy and create new jobs. That’s why Republicans are

preparing legislation to provide greater fairness to Oregon’s working families and

encourage more capital investment in our state.”

House Republicans also called for greater fiscal restraint with the state budget,

considering economists do not expect the state to collect additional new revenue this

biennium. The Legislature spent down the current budget’s ending fund balance to $36

million, leaving little to protect Oregon from a sudden downturn.

“The Legislature must move forward with across-the-board five percent savings in all

agency General Fund budgets, and capture savings from unused and unnecessary state

employee vacancies,” Rep. Hanna said. “House Republicans will continue to vigorously

oppose the Governor’s excessive pay raises to his political appointees. Giving

bureaucrats $1,500-per-month pay raises sends the wrong message to taxpayers and

working families.”

Rep. Hanna also renewed calls for the creation of a Legislative Audits Office to increase

legislative oversight and government performance.

“During uncertain economic times, the Legislature needs tools to make sure our tax

dollars are being spent wisely,” Rep. Hanna said. “Currently, the Legislature is at the

mercy of an executive branch that has no interest in disclosing the waste, fraud and abuse

in our government.”

Governor's 'Right Track Economy' Likely Slipped Into Recession in March

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:10:50 +0100

“Oregon's economy continued to slump in April, having most likely slipped into a recession in March, according to the University of Oregon Index of Economic Indicators.

“Six of the indicators' eight measurements declined in April, and the overall index dropped 0.9 percent for the month. The only measures that improved were the interest-rate spread and manufacturing orders. The measures that worsened were unemployment claims, residential building permits, employment advertising, the weight-mile tax, nonfarm payrolls and consumer confidence.

“UO economists said in their report that with payrolls declining for two consecutive months, Oregon likely tipped into a recession in March. If so, expect to see additional job declines in the months ahead. The economy might improve by the end of this year, but the job market could remain weak for a protracted period, similar to 2001-03.” (Economic Data Indicate State Likely Has Fallen Into Recession, Statesman Journal, Don Currie, 6/5/2008)

Governor Also Proclaimed “Right Track” Economy in March

“I believe that Oregon’s economy is on the right track.” (Gov. Ted Kulongoski quoted in Governor Optimistic About Economy, Sarah Skidmore, The Associated Press, 3/22/2008)

In Response to a Stagnant Economic Forecast, House Democrats ‘Pat Themselves on the Back’ for ‘Prudent Fiscal Stewardship’…

“Democrats, who are in charge in both the state House and Senate, as well as in the governor’s office, hailed Thursday’s pronouncements. They patted themselves on the back for what Rep. Phil Barnhart of Eugene called prudent fiscal stewardship and economic diversification, which, he said, has helped Oregon escape the pitfalls of other states.” (Oregon Revenue Forecast: State Income Steady, Kickers Not in the Cards, The Associated Press, Julia Silverman, 5/29/2009)

…While Campaigning for Higher Taxes and Increased Spending.

“We need a three-fifths majority in the Oregon Legislature to take us to the next level.” (House Majority Leader Dave Hunt quoted in The Democratic Machine Re-Assembles for Fall, Jeff Mapes, Mapes on Politics, OregonLive 5/22/2008)

House Republicans: Slow Economy Not Acceptable…

“House Republican Leader Bruce Hanna of Roseburg said state government should be generating more savings, including a 5-percent cut in agency budgets and cancellation or reduction of manager-pay increases ordered last fall by Gov. Ted Kulongoski. 'We are not satisfied with an economy that has little or no job growth,' said Hanna, whose party is fighting to regain the majority it lost in 2006.” (Forecast: No Kicker in' 09, But No Budget Cuts Either, Statesman Journal, Peter Wong, 5/30/2008)

…Preparing Economic Growth Package for 2009

“Republicans are preparing legislation to provide greater fairness to Oregon’s working families and encourage more capital investment in our state.” (News Release: Slow Economic Growth Unacceptable, House Republican Office, 5/29/2008)

House Republicans Announce Plan to Combat Metal Theft in 2009

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:07:17 +0100

SALEM— House Republicans announced today they will introduce legislation in 2009 to

combat metal theft. The legislation will include several components, including stronger antitheft

laws and law enforcement tools, tougher sentencing, and more effective guidelines on how

metal can be sold and transported.

“Metal theft is an escalating problem in Oregon that is costing businesses and taxpayers millions

of dollars,” said Rep. Andy Olson (R-Albany), a co-sponsor of the legislation. “While we made

progress in 2007, more work needs to be done to protect businesses, schools, public and private

art and our infrastructure.”

The legislation will modify the existing statute of First Degree Theft to include any amount of

metal stolen, better enabling district attorneys to prosecute and convict metal thieves. It would

create a new crime of aggravated criminal mischief that carries a mandatory minimum sentence

of 36 months.

“This legislation will send a strong message to those who steal and sell publicly- and privatelyowned

metals for a profit,” said Rep. Kim Thatcher (R-Keizer), a co-sponsor. “Our solution will

force metal thieves to think twice before they steal from our farmers, small business owners,

utilities and Oregon taxpayers.”

The House Republican plan will clarify purchasing guidelines to prohibit recyclers and scrap

metal dealers from receiving any coated metal that had been melted, or wiring that had the

coating burned off. Further, the legislation will direct district attorneys to develop county

“action plans” with local law enforcement and local recyclers and scrap metal dealers.

“We can’t combat metal theft without a strong partnership of law enforcement officers and metal

purchasers,” said Rep. Scott Bruun (R-West Linn), a co-sponsor. “Through local planning and

coordination, purchasers can be alerted to thefts within 24 hours of an incident and law

enforcement can take quick action to locate stolen property.”

The House Republican plan will also give law enforcement greater tools to catch thieves who are

transporting stolen metal on Oregon’s roads. The legislation will require transporters to carry

certification for the metal, as is currently required for livestock and agricultural products. It will

also amend existing statutes to enable law enforcement to track and arrest suspected thieves.

“Our bill will cripple the metal theft industry by keeping the thieves off our roads and

highways,” said Rep. Vic Gilliam (R-Molalla), a co-sponsor. “Thieves can’t sell stolen property

when they can’t reach the dealers and recyclers.”

With New Year Approaching, Democrats Want Oregonians to Forget Much-Needed Reforms

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 14:45:16 +0100

While a number of bills will become law on January 1, 2008, Democrats would like Oregonians to forget the much-needed reforms they killed in 2007, which include:

HB 2550	6/20/07-House Democrats voted to kill the Republican plan to hire a legislative auditor to review the performance of state agencies and increase fiscal responsibility in state government.
HB 2613	6/19/07-House Democrats voted to kill bipartisan Chalkboard Project legislation to require independent state audits of school district finances.
HB 3427	6/19/07-House Democrats voted to kill legislation requiring that 65 cents of every education dollar be spent on classroom instruction.
HB 3535	5/8/07-House Democrats voted to kill the Republican plan to dedicate General Fund resources to the Oregon State Police, at funding levels to provide 24/7 Trooper coverage.
HB 3429	5/23/07-House Democrats voted to kill legislation to crack down on career criminals who repeatedly victimize Oregonians through property crime, ID theft and auto theft.
SB 465	6/25/07-House Democrats voted to kill legislation to protect consumers and businesses from employees under the influence of medical marijuana.
HB 2861	5/21/07-House Democrats voted to kill legislation to keep sex offenders out of communities without 24/7 police coverage.

“House Republicans will continue to fight for these much-needed reforms,” said House Republican Leader Bruce Hanna (R-Roseburg). “Oregonians shouldn’t have to wait two more years for education reform, 24/7 State Police coverage and other important public safety solutions.”

Legislature Poised to Take Action on Republican Priorities

Fri, 07 Dec 2007 22:34:28 +0100

SALEM -- House and Senate Republican leaders said today they’re pleased the Legislature is on track to advance Republican priorities during the 2008 special session. Although a clear agenda or list of priorities has not been discussed by legislative Democrats, several Republican priorities are now in the works following bill draft deadlines in both the House and Senate.

“Republican ideals are becoming the agenda for the February session, proving that we are more in tune with the wants and needs of average Oregonians” said Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli (R-John Day). “Republicans are here to do the people’s business.”

Though several priorities have attracted bipartisan support, Democrats have not yet acted on Republican priorities to provide 24-hour Oregon State Police coverage, fund Oregon Project Independence for seniors, or to restore funding to the “Big Look Commission.”

“The Legislature in February will have an opportunity to pass important measures, such as eliminating wasteful spending and securing Oregon’s drivers licenses,” said House Republican Leader Bruce Hanna (R-Roseburg). “Unfortunately, we’re still no closer to putting more Troopers on our highways or sustaining a program allowing seniors to receive care in their own homes. We hope Democrats will join us in addressing these issues for Oregonians.”

Republican Priority - Action

Provide 24-hour Oregon State Police Coverage
Awaits Ways and Means Action.

Hold State Government Accountable for Spending and Waste
Sen. Larry George has submitted a legislative concept to create the Legislative Audit Office.

Secure Oregon Driver’s Licenses and ID Documents
Legislative concepts are being drafted in both the House and Senate.

Protect Oregon Project Independence for Senior Citizens
Awaits Ways and Means Action.

Train Oregon’s Teachers for Excellence
Sen. Ted Ferrioli has submitted a legislative concept to provide professional development programs to teachers.

Expand Water Resources for Eastern Oregon Agriculture
Sen. Dave Nelson has submitted a legislative concept addressing water storage issues in Eastern Oregon.

Reform Oregon’s Land Use Laws, Restore the ‘Big Look’
Awaits Ways and Means Action.

rotect Oregonians from Predatory Scams
The House Consumer Protection Committee has submitted a legislative concept to address predatory foreclosure scams.

*Under Speaker Jeff Merkley’s session guidelines, no Representative is allowed to individually introduce legislation.

2008 Special Session Priorities

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 22:48:55 +0100

Priority: Provide 24-hour Oregon State Police Coverage

Action: Add troopers to provide 24-hour coverage on Oregon’s highways by appropriating additional funding to OSP’s Patrol Division.

Why now? Oregonians throughout our state deserve State Police protection, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Sound familiar? In 2007 Republicans introduced HB 3535 to provide dedicated General Fund dollars to the Oregon State Police, at levels to secure 24/7 coverage. The Democrats did not pass our plan, and approved an OSP budget that failed to provide enough Troopers for 24/7 coverage.

Priority: Hold State Government Accountable for Spending and Waste

Action: Create a new office within the Legislature to audit the performance and fiscal responsibility of state government.

Why now? Oregonians deserve accountability for the record state spending passed in the 2007-09 budget, as well as state spending in the future.

Sound familiar? The nonpartisan Public Commission on the Legislature recommended creating an audit office to improve oversight. During the 2007 session Republicans introduced HB 2550 to implement this recommendation. Democrats wouldn’t give the bill a hearing.

Priority: Secure Oregon Driver’s Licenses and ID Documents

Action: Require valid documentation that an individual is in Oregon legally before issuing a drivers license. If the applicant is in the U.S. with a temporary permit, the license would expire when his/her legal documentation expires.

Why now? Oregon must take steps to secure our drivers licenses and comply with federal law.

Sound familiar? During the 2007 session, Republicans worked to pass legislation in both chambers to secure driver’s licenses and identification documents. Democrats failed to support this legislation, and recently tried to punt the problem to the Governor.

Priority: Protect Oregon Project Independence for Senior Citizens

Action: Restore General Fund dollars that was cut from the 2007-09 Governor’s Recommended Budget to OPI, which allows seniors to receive care in their own homes.

Why now? Without additional funding, the OPI Fund could be insolvent in 2009-11.

Sound familiar? Throughout 2007, Republicans fought to direct General Fund dollars to OPI. Democrats did not join us, and the current 2007-09 budget includes no General Fund dollars for this vital program.

Priority: Train Oregon’s Teachers for Excellence

Action: Create a statewide network to deliver effective professional development programs for educators and set quality standards.

Why now? Oregon’s kids deserve excellent teachers, and every second counts. 2009 is too long to wait.

Sound familiar? Republicans have consistently supported The Chalkboard Project’s legislation, including HB 2614 to improve teacher training. Despite bipartisan support, Democrat leadership killed the bill in the Ways and Means Committee.

Priority: Expand Water Resources for Eastern Oregon Agriculture

Action: Pass legislation to make more Columbia River water available for Eastern Oregon agriculture and groundwater replenishment.

Why now? Eastern Oregon’s economy needs help now. One estimate suggests that additional water would allow farmers to harvest 100,000 additional acres, creating as many as 7,300 new jobs and pumping $220 million into this struggling economy.

Sound familiar? Republicans supported bipartisan legislation to allow Eastern Oregon to get its lawful share of Columbia River water. HB 3525 passed the House, but died in the Senate after the Governor threatened a veto.

Priority: Reform Oregon’s Land Use Laws, Restore the ‘Big Look’

Action: Restore Democrat cuts to the bipartisan Land Use Task Force, also known as the “Big Look Commission.”

Why now? Recent elections have demonstrated that Oregonians are not happy with Oregon’s land use laws. We need to restore the Big Look commission to bring our outdated system into the 21st Century.

Sound familiar? Republicans have consistently called for the commission’s restoration. The Democrats shut down the commission on the irresponsible logic that it would divert attention from Measure 49.

Priority: Protect Oregonians From Predatory Scams

Action: Pass legislation to protect Oregonians from those who prey on homes facing foreclosure.

Why now? As foreclosures increase, and predatory companies are looking for victims, the Legislature should not wait until 2009 to pass this common sense protection.

Republicans Support Legal ID for Legal Residents

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 23:04:59 +0100

SALEM—House Republicans today said they’ll oppose the Governor’s plan giving drivers licenses to illegal aliens. They’ll continue to support implementation of measures to secure drivers licenses and identification documents for citizens and legal residents.

“It’s wrong to issue drivers licenses to illegal aliens,” said House Republican Leader Bruce Hanna (R-Roseburg). “The Governor’s plan establishes a double-standard, where it’ll actually be easier to obtain a drivers license or ID if you’re here illegally. It sends the message that driving is a privilege for Oregonians, but a right for illegal aliens.”

During the 2007 session, Rep. Linda Flores (R-Clackamas) and Rep. Kim Thatcher (R-Keizer) led efforts to pass sensible immigration reforms. Among the reforms, House Republicans sought to require proof of legal presence for state benefits and require ODOT to report those who attempt to obtain these documents through fraudulent means.

"Oregon voters tell us they want drivers' licenses limited to people who are here legally," said Rep. Flores, the Deputy Republican Whip. Flores added, "I find it interesting that the Governor campaigned on how advanced Oregon was in securing our drivers' license system. However, this new plan will only push us farther behind other states and moves us in the wrong direction."

Rep. Thatcher questioned the Governor’s priorities. She asked, “Why do we want to continue making Oregon a magnet for illegal aliens? I thought the Governor is supposed to uphold the state’s laws.”