Governor Signs Portland Gap Bond Authority
Chip Shields Lead House in Passing Bill

Today Governor Ted Kulongoski signed Senate Bill 1106 into law, enabling the Portland School Board to provide additional money to public schools for the next three years through its “gap bond” authority—more than $15 million annually, if the Board exercises the authority.

During the Oregon Legislature's six- hour special session on April 20th, State Representative Chip Shields successfully carried the "Portland Gap Bond" legislation to final passage in a 34-26 vote on the House floor.

"As a member of King PTA, I know this bill has real consequences for real kids. Approving this bill means 47,000 students in Portland Public Schools will have a complete school year," said Shields.

Without the passage of the Gap Bond Authority, Portland Public Schools would likely have had to cut teachers and significantly reduce the number of school days each year. The resulting shorter school years, larger class sizes and less individual attention were unacceptable to Oregon lawmakers who followed Shields lead in passing the legislation.

The Portland Gap Bond Authority coupled with the lottery revenue distribution lawmakers also approved will provide 19 million dollars for Portland public school children. While this offers a temporary solution for Portland’s students, lawmakers desire to tackle permanent funding solutions next session.

Shields co-carried the bill on the House floor with Rep. Scott Bruun, R-West Linn.