OR Governor Pushes Trade of Pension Reform for Higher Taxes

Unsavory bargain

Gov. John Kitzhaber endorsed a "grand bargain" today that promises to link additional cuts in public-pension costs with new revenues for education and other programs.

The Democratic chief executive, who has been trying to broker a compromise between the Legislature's majority Democrats and minority Republicans, said the package would supply additional money and savings that both parties want.

"It's an opportunity to follow through on the promise we have made to our citizens – Oregonians – about putting children, families and education first," said Kitzhaber, who led off testimony to the Senate Finance and Revenue Committee.