Board Votes to Strongly Oppose Measure 118

Measure 118 proposes a 3% tax on businesses with gross Oregon sales exceeding $25 million annually. Unlike a typical income tax that targets profits, this is a gross receipts tax, meaning it would tax total sales without regard to whether a business is making a profit or experiencing financial hardship.

Why Vote No on Measure 118?

A Massive Tax on Sales

Measure 118 represents a $6.8 billion tax increase, the largest in Oregon's history. Businesses would be forced to pay this tax regardless of their profitability. This tax will hit every stage of the production and sales process, from raw materials to the final retail sale. Consequently, the same product could be taxed multiple times, dramatically increasing costs for businesses and, ultimately, consumers.

Higher Consumer Prices at the Worst Possible Time

The timing couldn’t be worse. With the cost of living already soaring, Measure 118 would further hike prices on essential goods and services like food, medicine, and electricity. According to the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee's May 2024 Oregon Inflation Report, a typical Oregon household needs an additional $11,000 annually to maintain the same standard of living they had in 2021. Adding more taxes now will only exacerbate the financial strain on families, particularly seniors and those on fixed incomes.

Risk to Local Businesses and Jobs

The new tax burden would force many local businesses to either raise their prices, cut jobs, or shut down entirely. Gresham’s vibrant business community—comprising small businesses and startups—would be among the hardest hit. These enterprises are the backbone of our local economy, providing jobs and services that keep our community thriving.

A Blank Check for Politicians

Despite claims from proponents, Measure 118 does not ensure that the revenue generated will benefit Oregon residents directly. The measure allows politicians in Salem to amend it with a simple majority vote, potentially redirecting funds away from essential services with no accountability to the public.

Negative Impact on State Budget

Governor Tina Kotek has voiced strong opposition to Measure 118, stating its flawed approach would create a significant gap in the state budget, jeopardizing essential services for low-wage and working families. An updated fiscal analysis reveals that, despite the tax increase, the initiative would reduce funds available for K-12 education, healthcare, and human services.

Out-of-State Influence

Measure 118 is heavily funded by out-of-state special interest groups that do not have the best interests of Gresham's economy or local businesses in mind. These groups' primary goal is to push their own political agendas at the expense of Oregon's residents and businesses.

Protect Gresham’s Economy and Local Businesses- Vote No on Measure 118!

A vote against Measure 118 is a vote for our community, our local businesses, and the overall economic well-being of Gresham. We urge all voters to carefully consider the negative impact this measure would have on essential goods and services, jobs, and our state budget before casting their votes. Let us keep Gresham.

It's troubling to note that Measure 118 is heavily supported by out-of-state activists and out of state-based funding. These backers may not fully understand or prioritize the unique needs and challenges faced by Oregon’s local communities and businesses.

Stand with Gresham – Protect Our Community

The Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce stands firmly against Measure 118, and we need your support to safeguard our local economy and preserve the vitality of our businesses. By voting No on Measure 118, you will help prevent an unnecessary and harmful tax increase that threatens both businesses and consumers.

Join us in protecting Gresham's future. Let's ensure that our community continues to thrive without the burden of excessive taxation.

Vote No on Measure 118 this November!

By maintaining a focus on the negative impacts of Measure 118 and providing concrete reasons for opposition, we aim to persuade voters to reject this harmful measure in the upcoming election. Let's work together to keep Gresham thriving!