April 04th, 2018

A very important bill awaits Governor Kate Brown’s signature, but it is sitting on her desk. She has just a couple of weeks left to make her decision. Business interests are pushing her hard to veto this bill.

For the good of Oregon’s teachers, students, and working families, she needs to sign it immediately.
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Senate Bill 1528 preserves over $1 billion in revenue over the next five years for Oregon to invest in our schools and essential services — rather than handing that money over to well-off business owners in the form of yet another tax break.
Senate Bill 1528 says “no” to a costly and unjust part of the Trump tax plan, a new tax deduction for what’s called “pass-through” income. This kind of income mainly flows to those at the top. ( I asked you to support this bill in February. It passed, and now we need your help again. It needs to 'pass' off of the governor's desk)
Business owners already enjoy a special Oregon tax break and will still get the deduction on their federal taxes. Senate Bill 1528 stops them from getting yet another state tax benefit.

Businesses are better off when local schools are strong and their customers are more economically secure with affordable housing and health care. If Gov. Brown vetoes this bill, our schools will suffer as will the social services programs that we all depend on. Those that would benefit would by-and-large be many of the same people who will also benefit from the Trump Tax Cut.

Action of the Week: Tell the Governor that it is time for her to take a stand for kids (the biggest chunk of Oregon's budget goes to education and human services). Its time for her to sign Senate Bill 1528. Click here to send a message to the Governor.

In Love and Faith,
​Rev. Katie Larsell
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PS. Today is the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s death. I didn't think I would take it so hard. Love and care to all of you who have been listening to this news and finding yourself heavy-hearted.