Item 3: Discussion and Approval of IGR Positions

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Senator BATES Sponsored by: http://www.leg.state.or.us/09reg/measpdf/sb0800.dir/sb0800.intro.pdf URL: ContactRespondentDept Updated Priority Policy Poli Numb Recommendation Kevin Finney Kevin Finney PW-POS 4/13/2009 Pri 3 VII. B4 Support Comments: The proposed changes to the pesticide regulations will, among other things, require applicators to provide more detailed information about where they make applications. These changes will provide more useful information about pesticide exposure and will better protect public health. SJR 0025 Proposing amendment to Oregon Constitution relating to property taxes. Relating Clause: Proposes amendment to Oregon Constitution to require approval by at least three-fifths Title: of electors who cast ballot for measures that authorize new or increased property taxes. Refers proposed amendment to people for their approval or rejection at next regular general election. Senator STARR; Senators FERRIOLI, GEORGE, KRUSE, WINTERS Sponsored by: http://www.leg.state.or.us/09reg/measpdf/sjr1.dir/sjr0025.intro.pdf URL: ContactRespondentDept Updated Priority Policy Poli Numb Recommendation Larry Hill Larry Hill CS-FIN 3/9/2009 Pri 1 Yes YesII. A1 Oppose Comments: SJR 25 proposes a new amendment to the Oregon Constitution that would impose a supermajority requirement for passage of any property tax measure. If this amendment were to become law, a minority of voters could block the majority's favorable vote in favor of funding local government services. This undemocratic proposal is an attempt to shift marginal control on property tax votes to an anti-tax minority that otherwise would be unable to prevail against funding local government services. To illustrate the importance of the simple majority rule in governance, had a 3/5 supermajority rule had been imposed on May 2, 1843, at Champoeg, the minority would have then prevailed over the majority and Oregon would have failed to form its first system of American government. 10