Statement by Governor Kulongoski on legislature's veto override
(Salem) – “Exercising its authority under the Oregon constitution, the legislature has overridden my vetoes of House Bill 5520 and House Bill 5554.
“I disagree with the decision to reduce the state reserve funds during this very uncertain economic time. With record unemployment and state revenues at risk of declining over the course of the biennium, I remain concerned that today’s decision puts the state’s long-term financial stability at great risk.
“I hope that I am wrong. I hope that in February 2010 when the legislature reconvenes that state revenues have held strong, and we are in the position to invest more into K-12 education – not cut it.
“Notwithstanding this disagreement, we have worked together successfully this session to advance policies that will help Oregon families during this economic recession and position the state for success when the economy recovers.
“In the final days of session, I hope we can continue to work together on matters important to the citizens of Oregon.
“With record unemployment, seasonal employment down, and a demand for work growing, I urge the legislature to pass the Emergency Jobs and Training Act so we can put more than 7,000 Oregonians back to work this summer.”
Contacts:
Anna Richter Taylor, 503-378-6169
Rem Nivens, 503-378-6496
Jillian Schoene, 503-378-5040
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