Message from our CEO: Oregon Food Bank urges community to vote carefully on Measure 103

October 24, 2018 – Measure 103 seeks to make unconstitutional any form of taxation of groceries in Oregon. Oregon Food Bank believes that higher food prices directly harm people experiencing hunger and food insecurity. We also know that people experiencing hunger are more likely to rely on government-funded social services, which are historically underfunded due to inadequate state revenues. Because of this conflict, Oregon Food Bank has not taken a position on Measure 103.

However, ongoing and misleading messaging has moved us to action. This measure would in no way affect food bank operations positively or negatively. Oregon Food Bank is not taxed, nor is there reason to think we will be taxed in the future. We do not sell food to hungry people, ever. We do not charge a tax on grocery products we distribute to partner agencies or people experiencing hunger. Measure 103 would not change this.

We urge all voters to do their research and be engaged and informed as they mark their ballots.