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Bill

HB 2703

Relating to an income tax surtax to fund emergency preparedness; prescribing an effective date; providing for revenue raising that requires approval by a three-fifths majority.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Paul Evans

Oregon bill proposing state income surtax for emergency preparedness funding, requiring three-fifths legislative majority approval.

In committee upon adjournment.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2703

Legislative bill overview

HB 2703 proposes imposing an income tax surtax in Oregon with revenues designated for emergency preparedness and disaster response funding. The bill requires a three-fifths majority vote to pass, reflecting Oregon's constitutional requirement for tax increases. The measure has been referred to committees examining emergency management and revenue implications.

Why is this important

Emergency preparedness funding directly affects public safety infrastructure, disaster response capacity, and recovery resources available during natural disasters—issues of particular concern in Oregon given wildfire, earthquake, and flooding risks. Tax policy changes impact all income earners and state budget priorities, making this a significant fiscal and governance decision with broad constituent effects.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax increase burden: Surtaxes on income are controversial, with debate over who bears the cost (high earners vs. broader populations) and whether new revenue or budget reallocation should fund emergency services
  • Effectiveness of dedicated funding: Questions about whether dedicated surtax revenue ensures adequate emergency preparedness versus becoming a general fund source during budget pressures
  • Three-fifths threshold complexity: The supermajority requirement makes passage difficult and raises questions about whether emergency preparedness warrants this higher legislative bar compared to other funding mechanisms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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