Lottery revenue distributions to counties support economic development opportunities that make Oregon communities vibrant and prosperous.
Under Oregon law, counties are supposed to receive 2.5 percent of net video lottery proceeds. Unfortunately, since 2011, this allocation has been modified to a fixed appropriation based on estimated revenue. While this calculation may be more simplistic for the state, there is not currently a process in place to “true-up” or “true-down” the allocations when revenue is above or below projected estimates. This missing piece has resulted in at least a $5.1 million shortfall in allocation to counties before the current biennium, based on statutory intent.
In order to address this issue, and ensure counties are fully equipped to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and benefit communities, Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) worked with legislators to move HB 2320, a bill to create a mechanism where counties gain full access to the statutory 2.5 percent allocation of lottery revenues when they are up.
After robust discussion, the bill passed the House Committee on Economic Development with unanimous support and was sent to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means awaiting further discussion.
To view AOC’s testimony on the bill with county economic development investments, click here.
Contributed by: Megan Chuinard | Public Affairs Associate