During a recent meeting of the Oregon Senate Committee on Finance and Revenue, significant concerns were raised regarding Senate Bill 712, which aims to modify property tax regulations. Veteran advocate Lori Kimmel voiced strong opposition to the bill, highlighting its potential negative impact on disabled veterans and surviving spouses.

Kimmel, who identified herself as a veteran, emphasized that many disabled veterans in Oregon live on limited incomes, with some receiving as little as $995 a month. She pointed out that the current property tax exemption for disabled veterans is only 10%, requiring proof of a 40% disability. Kimmel argued that Senate Bill 712 would exacerbate financial strains on these vulnerable groups, particularly as property tax bills loom.

She referenced the historical context of Measure 5, which was supported by a majority of Oregonians and aimed to alleviate tax burdens. Kimmel warned that the proposed changes in Senate Bill 712 would reverse the progress made by Measure 5, further contributing to Oregon's ranking as one of the states with the highest tax burdens and lowest personal incomes.

Kimmel concluded her testimony by stressing that the bill would disproportionately affect those on fixed incomes, including the elderly and disabled veterans, urging the committee to reconsider its implications. The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over property tax policies in Oregon and their impact on the state's most vulnerable residents.