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County Commish Candidates Weigh In On M97

BEND, OR -- One of the biggest issues on Oregon's November ballot is Measure 97, which would tax large corporations with gross sales over $25 million. Supporters say the funds will be used for schools, healthcare and social services.

 

Deschutes County Commissioner Alan Unger and his Republican challenger Phil Henderson discussed the measure at a recent candidate forum, hosted by the Bend Chamber of Commerce. Henderson isn't convinced the state needs the revenue. "I'm very strongly against Measure 97. I think it is what the Bend Chamber has said it is, what most business people say it is, and what most families know it is, which is a tax on all of us. It's a way for the state of Oregon to collect $6 billion more out of our wallets and our paychecks so they can grow the state government."

 

Incumbent Commissioner Unger also opposes the measure. He told the crowd, "I don't think the referendum process is the way you raise taxes. I think you need to do it in the Legislature. I am frustrated with how this was done without business involvement, really; this will be bad for business, so I'm not supportive of Measure 97. I know the state needs more money to provide the services we have, especially with some of the bills that are coming due. But, I don't think Measure 97 and this value-added tax is the right way to do it."

 

Read more on how the Gubernatorial candidates stand on M97.

 

The measure would impose a 2.5% sales tax on those companies with gross sales over $25 million. 

 

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