Measure 86 would create state fund for education

In today’s atmosphere of careless government spending and economic turmoil, Measure 86 makes a statement that we should be planning for the future in a practical way.

A referendum from the Oregon Legislature, the measure requests approval from the voters to borrow money on behalf of the state to create a fund to subsidize the student costs of post-secondary education. Looking beyond the current Oregon Opportunity Grant program, the new funds would be available to those who pursue post-high school technical, career, or professional training (e.g. trade school, college, or professional development courses.)

The fund is designed to be self-sustaining after the initial infusion of capital is repaid from the state’s general fund. It may not be used for any other purpose unless the governor declares a state of emergency and the Legislature has approved a plan to repay the borrowed funds.

Supporters say that in today’s culture of mindless borrowing and seemingly limitless debt, it makes sense to invest a slice that in a manner that would pay dividends to future generations, future students, rather than spend hundreds of millions on healthcare systems that do not work or bridges that never get built. “Isn’t it time to ensure that we see some programs that actually help Oregonians advance more easily in their educational endeavors?,” supporters ask.

Critics say the measure would add significant new debt that could harm the state’s credit rating, and that many students aren’t really ready for college, anyway.

For more measure coverage, click here.