Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce urges NO Vote on Measure 118

Measure 118 is a tax on sales, not income or profits, meaning businesses will be taxed on their total sales regardless of whether they are highly profitable, operating on thin margins, or even losing money. This unfair tax hits businesses across the board, making it harder to stay afloat. As a result, prices are bound to increase. There’s no such thing as free money, and consumers will ultimately bear the cost of this tax through higher prices on everyday goods and services, as confirmed by Oregon’s nonpartisan Legislative Revenue Office.

Unlike a traditional sales tax applied once at the final point of sale, Measure 118 creates a “tax on a tax.” This tax could apply at every stage of the supply chain, leading to multiple layers of taxation before products even reach consumers. Moreover, it puts Oregon businesses at a disadvantage. Out-of-state competitors, like farmers and manufacturers, won’t be subject to the tax, giving them an unfair edge. As a result, Oregon businesses will find it harder to compete in the market.

There’s also no guarantee that anyone will actually receive the rebates promised under Measure 118. The legislature could easily amend the law at any time, redirecting funds or even raising the tax rate. This uncertainty makes it a risky proposition for both businesses and consumers. To make matters worse, the tax applies to everything—including essentials like groceries, gas, insurance, and medicine. With no exemptions, everyday necessities will become more expensive for all Oregonians.

The opposition to Measure 118 is broad and growing, with a bipartisan coalition of Democrats, Republicans, business organizations, and labor unions standing together against this deeply flawed proposal. The unity of such a diverse group highlights just how damaging this measure could be for Oregon’s economy and its residents.

So again, we urge you to do the research at NoonMeasure118.com and vote no. This will hurt both businesses and consumers in Oregon.

For more details, visit Beaverton.org.