SALEM, OR -- A new report shows key areas of critical concern for Oregon’s Secretary of State. When Jeanne Atkins took office in March, she hoped auditors could provide fresh perspective on several years’ worth of studies. The resulting collection of data created a list of three key themes: Education, state finances and infrastructure. "Oregon faces critical infrastructure needs, including the need to upgrade state information technology systems and to develop stable mechanisms for funding and managing future transportation projects," Secretary Atkins said. According to the report, Oregon has borrowed 2-billion dollars to pay for bridge and road construction over the past 10 years.
Atkins says that debt reduces the money available to pay for future transportation needs.
On education, Atkins said, "Oregon must have an education system organized for student success and ensuring that young Oregonians are prepared to enter the workforce."
According to the report, 11% of adult Oregonians don’t have a high school diploma or equivalent. Auditors made multiple recommendations on how the state could better prepare its workforce, including targeted support for teachers and students and better funding.
She says she hopes the audits will help lawmakers prioritize efforts as they head into the end of the legislative session. Click HERE to view the full report.
