A Lifeline not a Loophole

The charitable tax deduction is a unique part of the U.S. tax code- it’s  the only provision that encourages Americans to give away a portion of their income to help those in need. Sadly, this lifeline for charities could be placed on the chopping block.

To call attention to the need for this important deduction, Senator Wyden visited Meals on Wheels People in Portland and ACCESS in Medford.  Both groups and other charitable organizations have been able to accomplish much more because of the charitable deduction and truly need this crucial lifeline to be able to continue their good work. As winter hits much of Oregon and utility bills rise, the important services organizations like these provide become even more vital. Senator Wyden spent an afternoon delivering meals to seniors in Bend and another helping to promote the Lane County Letter Carriers Food Drive through Food for Lane County. 

While in Southern and Central Oregon, Senator Wyden continued his “Listening to the Future” tour of Oregon high schools by visiting with students at Crater, Klamath Union, and Summit High Schools. Check out a map of all the schools he’s visited so far -- 14 and counting! 

Wrapping up the week, Senator Wyden joined Senator Jeff Merkley and Schnitzer Steel Chairman, John Carter in kicking off the 11th Oregon Leadership Summit with a Q&A session highlighting some of the Oregon Business Plan priorities. The Summit annually brings together business, political, and community leaders to discuss how to create jobs and further grow Oregon’s economy.