December 2013 Government & Community Relations Update

Chairs reach federal budget deal to reduce sequester


On December 11, FY2014 Budget Conference Chairs Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Washington) announced a two-year budget agreement, replacing $63 billion of sequester cuts over FY14 and FY15.
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Federal round-up December 11


Charitable giving and tax reform - US Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) is leading an effort with Senator John Thune (R-South Dakota) to highlight the unique value of the charitable tax deduction. The letter is addressed to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Montana) and ranking member  Orin Hatch (R-Utah) and states:
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State Economist’s quarterly forecast positive; raises kicker concerns


State Economist Mark McMullen’s November 21 forecast of the state of Oregon’s economic situation found its recovery and budgetary outlook “on track.”  A broad, though gradual, economic recovery continues throughout the state and McMullen predicts it will continue.  However, the impact on state revenue may be so positive that it activates Oregon’s “kicker” law, returning a portion of t
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RIGE VP Kimberly Espy and Professor Tim Duy speak before Association of Oregon Counties Economic and Community Development Committee


Vice President for Research and Innovation and Dean of the Graduate School Kimberly Andrews Espy and Professor of Economics Tim Duy spoke before the Association of Oregon Counties Economic and Community Development Committee on November 19 at the association’s annual conference.
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Oregon Senate confirms University of Oregon Board of Trustees


The Oregon Senate approved the Governor’s appointments to the University of Oregon’s first Board of Trustees on November 21.  The appointees, include UO alumni, friends, faculty and staff members, and a student.
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