Oregon's Joint Committee on Transportation Reinvestment is facing significant scrutiny over the proposed Dash 28 package, which is projected to cost taxpayers billions over the next decade. During a recent meeting, concerns were raised about the substantial tax increases for both individuals and businesses, with critics questioning the accountability measures in place to ensure that taxpayers receive the benefits they are promised.

The Oregon Business and Industry (OBI) expressed a desire for a more measured approach, advocating for a reset of the process ahead of the 2026 session. OBI representatives highlighted the need for a "back to basics" bill that would prioritize essential issues, such as addressing the Oregon Department of Transportation's (ODOT) operational and maintenance budget challenges, fulfilling commitments from the 2017 transportation package, and correcting the cost allocation between light and heavy vehicles.

Despite some scaling down of the original proposal, the current amendment still includes numerous new and expanded programs that require ongoing funding, which OBI argues strays from the fundamental objectives they support. Additionally, the bill has been criticized for not addressing the longstanding issue of overpayment by heavy vehicles, a concern that OBI believes the legislature must rectify in accordance with Oregon's constitutional obligations.

As discussions continue, the committee faces pressure to ensure that any transportation funding plan is both fiscally responsible and transparent, with clear outcomes for the community. The next steps will be crucial in determining how Oregon will navigate its transportation funding challenges while maintaining public trust.