Without multi-year reauthorization, Oregon counties will be forced to scale back on public safety, public health, and public libraries
Yesterday Governor Ted Kulongoski issued another appeal to President Bush, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Harry Reid, repeating his call for federal leaders to reach an agreement on a multi-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act, which with its expiration in September 2006 created uncertainty for critical county services for communities across Oregon and the country.
"The failure to reach agreement has left hundreds of counties across the nation in a state of uncertainty at best, and crisis, at worst," the Governor wrote. "As I have previously communicated to you, the crisis is at hand and Oregon needs the federal government to honor a long standing commitment to counties."
Without reauthorization of the Act, 33 Oregon counties won't receive payments to compensate for lower revenues from reduced timber harvests on federal land. With the expiration of these payments, counties across Oregon are scrambling to cover budget shortfalls and laying-off staff and cutting services.
This week Curry County requested the Governor to declare a state of emergency due to the profound cuts to law enforcement, public safety and public health services caused by the elimination of the act. Other counties are contemplating following suit with similar requests for the Governor.
In the letter, the Governor outlined the extreme measures Curry County will be forced to do without reauthorization of the act. For example, no sheriff deputies will be able to respond to 911 calls from unincorporated counties, conduct criminal investigations, make arrests or patrol country roads. Additionally, there will be only three deputies to supervise 159 felons who have completed their prison sentences and are transitioning back into the community.
"The impact of the loss of funds may well affect public safety throughout Oregon's 36 counties leaving the entire state more vulnerable and less prepared to respond to local emergencies," the Governor continued. "Oregon has been, and remains, a strong partner to our nation when in need. I'm simply asking for the federal government to stand ready to help our communities in need and uphold its century long commitment to states."