Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski told state lawmakers Monday the public has seen enough division, stalemate and partisan warfare.

In his State of the State address, Kulongoski said the economy has worsened since he proposed his next two-year budget more than a month ago.

Speaking to a joint session of the House and Senate, the governor asked lawmakers not to lose sight of programs he says need funding.

Ted Kulongoski: “The facts have changed.  The states general fund has changed.  And our hope for an early economic recovery has changed.  But what has not changed – and will not change – are my priorities."

Despite Oregon’s budget problems, Kulongoski wants more funding for education, children’s health care, renewable energy and green technology.  

He urged lawmakers to raise revenues through targeted tax increases and higher state fees.  

Republicans favor tax breaks to boost economic activity.