Press Release

December 30, 2008

Rep. Edwards Re-appointed to State’s Chief Budget-writing Committee

Salem–Yesterday, State Rep. David Edwards (D-Hillsboro) was re-appointed to the state’s chief budget-writing committee, the Joint Committee on Ways & Means, for the 2009 – 2011 session of the Oregon State Legislature.

This appointment means Rep. Edwards will face some tough budget choices when the State Legislature convenes early next year. Revenue for the 2007 – 2009 biennium is currently projected to come in about $140 lower than expected. The state’s fiscal year ends in June. Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski has slashed agency spending by 1.2 percent to make up the current revenue shortfall.

Even more daunting, however, is the projected revenue shortfall of nearly $1 billion for the 2009 – 2011 biennium—a figure Rep. Edwards expects to grow before the legislative session is out. “Given the present volatility in our economy, our first obligation is to make prudent spending decisions,” said Rep. Edwards. “We need to approve a budget that spurs job and business creation, protects our most vulnerable citizens and positions Oregon for broad prosperity when the recovery begins.”

The projected revenue shortfall will likely lead to a combination of targeted cuts as well as some tax and fee increases. Rep. Edwards hopes for bi-partisan cooperation in the budgeting process. For instance, he’s working with State Sen. Bruce Starr (R-Hillsboro) to craft a comprehensive transportation funding package. This package will help alleviate congestion, improve freight mobility and put Oregonians back to work. “In my private life, I help high-tech companies develop new products and stay competitive internationally,” said Rep. Edwards. “The smart companies make targeted investments during economic downturns to improve their competitive position. Investing in our state’s transportation system will not only stimulate our economy in the short-term, but also prepare us for long-term success.”

Starting in January, Rep. Edwards will co-chair the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Transportation and Economic Development. He will also serve on the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Education as well as the House Transportation Committee.  These appointments reflect his interests and expertise. Rep. Edwards was one of only two freshman members of the State Legislature in 2007 appointed to the Joint Ways & Means Committee

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