House Republican and Democratic leaders comment on economy and job growth
House Republican Leader Comments on September 2012 Revenue Forecast
House Republican Leader Andy Olson (R-Albany) had the following to say regarding the September 2012 economic and revenue forecast:
“Today’s revenue forecast indicates that Oregon’s economic and job growth remains stagnant. Rather than experiencing a recovery, our unemployment rate is increasing. The reduction in estimated revenue for the 2013-15 biennium suggests that our economy will remain weak in the coming years. This is unacceptable.
“House Republicans are preparing a 2013 legislative agenda that will, once again, focus on private sector job creation as the primary solution for Oregon’s economy. However, as with the ‘50,000 Jobs in Five Years’ plan, we won’t be able to pass these pro-growth measures until we have more leaders who are resolved to fixing the state’s unemployment problem.
“We’ll continue our efforts to improve Oregon’s business environment to help attract and retain employers, while taking the same, fiscally-conservative approach to the state budget that has prevented deeper cuts to programs that are important to all Oregonians.”
Statement from House Democratic Leader Tina Kotek on September Revenue Forecast
“In today’s forecast we again see that Oregon’s economy is stabilizing and our revenue predictions remain largely flat. We’re seeing continued growth with positive signs, including increases in both estimated personal and corporate income tax receipts.
This forecast shows we need to do more to plan for the long term. The more we can equip workers with the knowledge, skills and versatility needed for the jobs that will come as the economy grows, the better Oregon will be positioned to thrive in the coming years.
Clearly, education at all levels will play an ever-growing role in job creation and economic vitality. Prioritizing that part of our state’s economic engine is imperative.
This forecast gives us reason for optimism in the short term. If we take the right steps and focus on the right priorities, we can ensure the future sees a strong economy with opportunity for all Oregonians.”
