Oregon’s Measure 118 aims to provide significant financial assistance to residents through a stimulus check or tax rebate of up to $6,400 per family. This initiative seeks to alleviate economic pressures on approximately four million Oregonians if it passes during the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November. The measure is designed to help families manage essential winter expenses, including food, housing, and utilities.
Key Features of Measure 118
Under Measure 118, eligible individuals could receive $1,600, with families able to claim benefits for up to six members. This means a qualifying family could potentially receive a total of $6,400, which can be issued as either a refundable tax credit or a direct rebate. This flexibility enables families to allocate funds according to their most pressing needs, whether for groceries, rent, or utility bills.
Eligibility Criteria for Measure 118
Eligibility for Measure 118 is focused on assisting low- and middle-income Oregonians and includes specific guidelines:
- Household Income: The measure prioritizes families experiencing financial hardship, targeting low- to middle-income households.
- Residency Requirement: To qualify, recipients must have resided in Oregon for at least 200 days in the previous year.
- Tax Obligation Flexibility: Individuals without tax liabilities are still eligible, making the program accessible to non-filers and those with no federal tax obligations. For those who do have tax obligations, the choice to receive the stimulus as a tax credit provides further financial flexibility.
These guidelines are designed to ensure that the aid reaches those who need it most without restricting how families can utilize the funds.
Economic Impact of the Measure
If approved, Measure 118 could inject around $6 billion annually into Oregon’s economy, benefiting local businesses as families spend the funds on essential goods and services. This economic boost could stimulate small businesses and community services, contributing to overall economic health. Kim McCarty, director of the Community Alliance of Tenants, noted that this stimulus would serve as a critical “lifeline” for families grappling with high housing costs, providing essential relief amid Oregon’s housing crisis.
Tackling Housing Instability
Oregon’s housing market faces challenges due to limited affordable options and escalating rental prices. For many families, a $1,600 stimulus check could significantly impact their ability to maintain stable housing and avoid homelessness. As McCarty emphasized, such financial assistance is crucial for helping families stabilize their housing situations and manage everyday expenses. While Measure 118 alone may not resolve the housing crisis, it represents an important step toward enhancing financial stability and improving residents’ quality of life.
