Election choice

Two things have happened recently with Measure 118 (the “Oregon Rebate”), which will be on the November ballot.

Backers of the measure say they will take from rich corporations and give back to regular Oregonians. Every Oregonian who is a resident of the state for at least 200 days would get the rebate.

The original number was $700 per Oregonian. It’s now up to $1,600 per Oregonian, because of revised calculations.

The second thing that has happened is that legislative leaders — Democrats and Republicans, including Gov. Tina Kotek — have lined up against it. Some business organizations, such as Oregon Business & Industry, have been organizing opposition. The Oregon Education Association’s board apparently voted to oppose it. The Bend Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a forum for Sept. 17 to learn about “opposition” to the measure. Find out more about that here: tinyurl.com/BendChamber118.

The measure does, of course, have organizational support it as well, including the Oregon Progressive Party, the Pacific Green Party, the United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America and more.

What the measure would do is create a new 3% tax on gross revenues for corporations with more than $25 million in sales in Oregon. It doesn’t matter if the corporation is profitable or not. If they qualify, they would have to pay. That money would be distributed to every Oregonian, regardless of their age or income.

It is not our policy to make endorsements on ballot measures. We do urge you to learn more about the measure before you vote. Supporters have a website here: yesonmeasure118.com. Opponents have a website here: noonmeasure118.com.