PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Oregon Senate Republicans have called for a two-year suspension of all new rules by state agencies because they say excessive regulation hurts job growth.
Republicans point to more stringent clean water standards and an expansion of one part of the workers’ compensation premium as signs the environment in Salem goes too far in constraining business growth.
The proposal by the Senate Republicans is of a piece with their effort in this year’s governor’s race to paint Oregon as unfriendly to business while Democrats have held power, and their pledge to improve the climate for private enterprise.
Democrats say they have worked while in power to streamline rules, and say the proposed moratorium is unnecessary, unrealistic and could backfire.
