Since defeating the payroll tax to fund Salem-Keizer Transit, the Salem Chamber has been working on legislation that would provide a better funding alternative. This Wednesday, February 3rd, House Bill 4078 will have a hearing at 3:30pm in Hearing Room E at the Capitol.

This bill was designed with partners in public transportation to fulfill funding gaps that prevent some services from being provided through a grant process administered by the Oregon Department of Transportation. This funding is critical for transit providers who do not have the local funds needed to match federal funds meant to increase ridership – particularly those public transportation providers smaller than Lane Transit District and Tri-Met.

House Bill 4078 would not have been possible without the support and leadership of Representatives Post and Hack. In addition, the following legislators have signed on in support of the bill. Support is very broad – both in party alignment and geographical representation. The list is strong, and growing.

Rep. Wilson, R Grants Pass                                  – support, co-sponsoring
Rep. Boone, D Cannon Beach                              – support, co-sponsoring
Rep. Buckley, D Ashland (w/m cochair)            – support, co-Chief
Rep. Clem, D Salem                                                – support, co-sponsoring
Rep. McLane, R Powell Butte (Rep. Leader)     – supportive
Rep. Nearman, R Newberg     (w/m trans)         – supportive
*Rep. Lively, D Springfield                                    – support, co-sponsoring
Rep. Huffman, R The Dalles                                  – support, co-sponsoring
*Rep. Gorsek, D Troutdale                                     – support, co-sponsoring
Sen. Beyer, D Springfield                                        – support, co-sponsoring
Sen. Kruse, R Roseburg                                           – support, co-sponsoring
Rep. Komp, D Woodburn                                        – support, co-sponsoring
*Rep. Hack, R Salem                                                – support, co-Chief
*Rep. Davis, R Wilsonville                                      – supportive
Rep. Esquivel, R Medford                                       – support, co-sponsoring
Rep. Piluso, D Gresham                                           – support, co-sponsoring
Rep. Gomberg, D Lincoln City  (w/m trans)       – supportive
Rep. Witt, D Clatskanie  (w/m trans)                   – support, co-sponsoring

  • Oregon Transportation Association and some individual members
  • Oregon Transportation Forum
  • Salem Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Salem Keizer Transit
  • Rogue Valley Transportation District
  • Salem Health

The Legislative Revenue Office is currently researching funding options for House Bill 4078. This bill addresses transit funding deficiencies as a statewide issue, and will likely be paid for by a more broad tax base, and bridges a funding gap that’s felt by transit providers that haven’t had a payroll tax implemented by Oregon’s legislative body.

“The Salem Chamber has a history of coming alongside businesses, organizations, municipalities, and people to help them be successful,” said Nick Williams, director of public affairs for the Salem Chamber. “This legislation is an example of such an effort, and we are proud to be part of it.”

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