Oregon Measure 118 is Heading for Failure at the November 5 Polls

UPDATE: Fierce Opposition to Oregon Measure 118 at the Polls Defeats Attempts to Establish a Basic Income Program

Measure 118 is heading for failure according to a poll undertaken by the Northwest Progressive Institute that shows that while 29% of the electorate favor Measure 118, 54% are opposed, and 17% are undecided.

Measure 118 proposes a 3% tax hike on companies with annual sales above $25 million that will put money into the pockets of eligible residents in the form of tax rebates.

Gift Wrapped Measure Less Appealing When Opened

While the gift wrapping on Measure 118 was initially appealing to many Oregonians who must vote yes or no on November 5, it has become less appealing when unwrapped.

Not only is Measure 118 poorly designed, says Deputy Director of the Oregon Center for Public Policy Daniel Hauser, but triggers unacceptable consequences. Hauser says Measure 118 will reduce available funds for state schools, child and health care, and other essential services.

Hauser says it was for this reason that organizations that originally endorsed the measure have since changed their allegiance. Among those are the Oregon Working Families Party, LIUNA (Laborers Local 483), the farmworkers union PCUN, and Democratic Socialists of Eugene.

The NPI is opposed to Measure 118 and says the campaign appears to be losing steam.

Supporters Say Proposal Will Bolster Local Economies

Proponents say monetary rebates will strengthen individuals and families financially and are aimed at creating stronger communities through a ‘bolstered local economy.’

Measure 118 would put $1,600 annually into Oregon taxpayers’ pockets and is mostly funded by Californian backers but is opposed by a $15.9 million campaign heavily bankrolled by grocers and large corporations.