Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski delivered his eighth and final state of the state address in Portland  Friday.

Speaking to an invitation-only audience, Kulongoski outlined what he considers his accomplishments. But he also warned that the state faces enormous fiscal challenges in the next few years.

Kulongoski talked up expanded health coverage for children, major transportation spending, and increased financial aid for college students.

But the Governor criticized state lawmakers for failing to take on one of his most recent policy priorities: an overhaul of Oregonís unique kicker law.

Kulongoski says sending unexpected tax surpluses back to taxpayers makes it difficult to plan for future budget shortfalls.

Ted Kulongoski:  "While we are striding toward recovery, we are also speeding toward a budgetary cliff. Simply put, time is of the essence. The Legislature must act in 2011 to avert a decade of deficits."

Kulongoski says some of the funding sources that helped the 2009 Legislature balance the state's budget won't be there next year. Those include federal bailout money and a now diminished rainy day fund.

Online:

Governor Kulongoski's State of the State address