Fully fund Preschool for All; no more delays
Financial forecasts from Multnomah County show that another delay could create a funding hole, harming working parents who depend on the program to stay employed, as well as teachers and small businesses that need job and employer stability in this turbulent economy.
On Thursday, August 20, Multnomah County Commissioners will vote on the long-planned tax increase to fully fund Preschool for All, which is essential to the program's long-term stability. The Commission chose to delay this increase last year after pressure from wealthy business interests not to raise their taxes.
Testimony guide: Use the Friends of Preschool for All Testimony Guide to submit written testimony by Aug. 20th at the very latest.
Submit Multnomah County testimony here.
Financial forecast: Multnomah County's forecast indicates that another delay in implementing the scheduled tax increase could put stable funding at risk.
Why it matters: The program is nearing universal access, yet a new worst-case financial forecast indicates the possibility of bankruptcy in just two years if this voter-approved funding increase doesn’t move forward. Voters in the County supported the program by a 2-to-1 margin because we recognize the importance of investing in early childhood education for our region's future.
Only top tier is taxed: The tax is only paid by the top tiers: individuals with net earnings of more than $125,000 and couples with more than $250,000 in income. It’s been delayed due to political pressure to avoid raising taxes to fund essential programs.
Preschool for All is an economic engine: A universal Preschool program in the County lifts families out of poverty, creates jobs and grows small businesses, which are the economic engine in our County.
Testimony guide: Use the Friends of Preschool for All Testimony Guide to submit written testimony by Aug. 20th at the very latest.
Submit County testimony here.