University of Oregon College Democrats

Most other states aren’t envious of Oregon’s tax structure which relies heavily on an unstable income tax. Recently it’s weaknesses have been underscored by a weak economy. While income taxes are progressive (taxing the wealthy instead of the poor) they have one major drawback, when the economy suffers the taxable income decreases, making our State legislature struggle to find funding sources for our most needed social programs. Facing an $852 million dollar cut in the state budget, Democrats worked diligently last year to pass Tax Fairness legislation. The increase in taxes will only affect those who can afford it; wealthy Oregonians sharing the burden while our poor economy recovers.  According to Defend Oregon 97.5% of Oregonians won’t see their taxes increase.

Without hesitation conservative ideologues quickly responded by creating the maligned group Oregonians Against Job Killing Taxes. Acting under their deceptive name, they gathered enough signatures to put the tax increases on the ballot.

So here’s the facts:

• A “no” vote will cut 3 million dollars from the University of Oregon’s budget. Making another tuition increase imminent.
• A “Yes” vote will preserve public services we need most including education, health, and safety.
• A “Yes” vote will tax those who can afford it, wealthy Oregonians making over $250,000 a year.
• The Oregon Corporate Minimum tax has not been increased since 1931. A “no” vote will keep it at $10. Fact: Adjusted for inflation $10 in 1931 would be equal to $140 in 2008.
• A “Yes” vote will raise the Corporate Minimum tax to $150, preserving funds for social programs.

Sometimes the boundaries of the University give us the perception of being in a protected square unaltered by the difficult times around us, but this recession has already hit our campus hard. Students, including myself, have seen a 7.9% increase in our tuition and the threat of another hike is very real. Classified staff that we rely on are being forced to take furlough days equal to pay cuts and our professors are underpaid compared to universities of equal size, seriously threatening our schools ability to hire and retain the best teachers.

A “no” vote will only exacerbate the problems we as students already face; increasing our tuition, and cutting programs and services we need most.

In January vote “Yes” on measure 66 and 67. Your vote will count.

Sign the pledge:

Your Vote Counts!