Deputy Secretary Kaplan outlines $135M budget request for Secretary of State's office

In a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on General Government, the focus was squarely on performance and budgetary needs within the Secretary of State's office. Under the steady glow of city hall lights, Deputy Secretary of State Michael Kaplan addressed the committee, emphasizing the importance of adapting work models to enhance productivity. "If work from home or a hybrid model leads to the best possible performance, then that's the model we should stick to," Kaplan stated, highlighting a commitment to performance-driven strategies.

The discussion quickly shifted to the budget, with Kaplan presenting a request totaling $135 million. This budget, he noted, reflects the previous administration's work with some amendments from his own. The breakdown revealed that 21% of the funding would come from the general fund, while a significant 76% would be sourced from other funds, with the remaining 3% from federal funds. This financial plan supports 264 positions, a slight increase from the last biennium, and is designed to maintain stability while addressing the office's operational needs.

Kaplan described the budget as "very status quo," indicating a cautious approach as the office seeks to understand its future requirements better. He assured the committee that he would return in 2026 and 2027 with a more comprehensive analysis of the office's needs and gaps. The proposal includes modest increases across various divisions, reflecting rising operational costs and workload demands.

As the meeting progressed, Kaplan outlined specific budgetary adjustments aimed at aligning position classifications with actual job responsibilities, particularly in human resources and IT. This strategic focus on performance and careful financial planning underscores the office's commitment to efficiency and effectiveness in serving the public.

The discussions at this meeting not only highlight the immediate operational strategies of the Secretary of State's office but also set the stage for future engagements with the legislature, ensuring that the office remains responsive to the evolving needs of Oregonians.