The proposed revisions to Oregon’s fairly regressive estate tax by the Legislature caught my attention. Republicans claim that Oregon has the most expansive estate tax in the country, making it the most terrifying place to die. On February 12, they aim to change that. This tax, which is between 10% and 16% of an inheritance valued at more than $1 million, would eventually affect an increasing number of estates if it is not stopped. Last year, I confirmed with the Department of Revenue that the calculation takes real estate worth into account.
Thousands of estates will probably be subject to the tax in the years to come, given the existing valuation of real estate. Given the state’s high senior population, I believe this cash cow will soon generate significant revenue for the state government, which is constantly in need of money.
I don’t think anything will change because the Senate and House of Oregon are controlled by Democratic supermajorities.
Portland’s Howard Groopman
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