(SALEM, Ore.) —  Governor Kitzhaber issued the following statement after a tentative agreement  was reached with AFSCME:

“Today’s agreement with AFSCME shows that through collective bargaining, we were able to be fair to our public employees while working within a balanced budget,” said Governor Kitzhaber. "This agreement represents a responsible set of trade-offs for both sides that positions Oregon for a better financial future. In particular, I want to recognize the leadership of AFSCME in addressing health care costs, both through this agreement and through innovation in health management. I believe this is a fair deal for taxpayers and public employees, and I hope to reach equally fair deals with the unions that are still at the bargaining table. These are tough times, and, together we will make it through them.”

Media Contacts:
Christine Miles,Governor Kitzhaber, 503-559-8795
Amy Wojcicki, Governor Kitzhaber, 503-689-5324