Salem, Oregon – Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is warning Oregonians big cuts to federal money that she claims would hurt the state a lot in the next few years. Her office put out a preliminary analysis at the budget reconciliation measure that congressional Republicans passed at the request of the Trump Administration. It shows that Oregon is likely to lose about $15 billion in federal subsidies.
The state’s Chief Financial Officer said that the lack of financing would affect health insurance programs, food assistance, and other important services. Kotek stated that the state is getting ready for the effects of the bill, even though the numbers are based on early estimates. They are waiting for more information from federal authorities on how the measure would be put into effect.
“The Trump Administration and Republicans in Congress have betrayed American children and families, who will become sicker, hungrier, and less prosperous because of President Trump’s budget bill. Oregonians will see less of their federal tax dollars coming back to our state for things they count on. Furthermore, President Trump and Congress knew that state governments cannot pay for this substantial gap in services but went ahead and did it anyway.
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The Governor stressed that the impacts will be felt across multiple state agencies over the next three budget cycles, with significant reductions in funding for programs serving low-income households, seniors, and vulnerable communities. While exact figures for each program are still being evaluated, Kotek’s office released a high-level breakdown showing the largest hits to agencies tied to public health, nutrition, and family support.
In response, Kotek plans to bring state lawmakers and key community stakeholders together to explore ways to reduce the harm. She said her administration will work closely with organizations that serve at-risk populations to identify both short-term relief options and long-term policy responses.
“I am going to work with Oregon lawmakers and community partners to do all that we can to stand up for Oregonians and get through this needless, callous hardship. I will continue to hold the line and push back as Oregon values are under threat. I hope Oregonians will stand with me as we fight this together.”
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Her office has pledged to provide ongoing updates as federal implementation moves forward and the full scope of the cuts becomes clearer.
Additional preliminary analyses of impacts to Oregon state agencies can be found here.
