Oregon Governor Kotek Proposes $39.3 Billion Budget

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has proposed a budget for the 2025-2027 biennium focused on addressing homelessness, housing, and education, with a total spending plan of approximately $137.7 billion. Her budget allocates over $2 billion specifically for homelessness and housing initiatives, including $880 million for building affordable housing and $188.2 million for transitioning individuals out of homelessness. Kotek also emphasizes the need for a significant increase in K-12 funding, proposing $11.36 billion, which is a 10% rise from the current budget, to address educational challenges. The governor's budget is described as a 'stability budget,' aiming to maintain existing services without cuts or layoffs, despite rising costs. Kotek urges state lawmakers to prioritize these core issues during the upcoming legislative session, stressing that perseverance is essential for meaningful progress. The budget will require the support of the Democrat-led Legislature to advance her vision for Oregon.