Comcast bill languishes, state requires insurers cover abortions and Portland loses out on Outdoor Retailer.
Like many Oregonians, I’ve been battling terrible allergies and this morning is no exception. But the job of a news curator must go on. Here are the stories that caught my eye today.
More taxes, more problems. A new law allows the state to levy interest on unpaid corporate property taxes. The policy is aimed at Comcast, which could owe $147 million. But the law doesn’t apply to back taxes, and the accompanying bill is stalled in committee. Read more from the Oregonian.
Oregon bill requires insurers to cover abortions at no cost to patient. The provision is part of a larger $10 million fund to expand services statewide and require insurers continue to cover reproductive services. The decision comes as millions of women could lose access to affordable reproductive services. The funding will be available as soon as the bill is signed by Gov. Kate Brown. The Statesman Journal has more.
Portland loses out on Outdoor Retailer. The Rose City’s attempt to land the giant outdoor trade show was unsuccessful. The show, which left its longtime Salt Lake City base, is taking place in Denver. The Portland Business Journal has more.
On the outs. We published a popular interview with former Norpac CEO George Smith last spring. Five months later, the food processor has announced it is laying off several hundred seasonal employees. Read more from the Oregonian here.
Fossil fuel battle ignites — again. Klamath County Commissioners issued a letter of endorsement for the Jordan Cove pipeline this week. Protests began a renewed effort last week against the project. Read the story from Herald & News.
PSU receives $5 million donation. The donation from Fariborz Maseeh fills the $70 million pot needed to renovate Neuberger Hall. Read more from the Oregonian.
Volvo charges into a new century. The Chinese-owned automaker announced all new vehicles will be electric or hybrid starting in 2019. NPR has the story.
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OB Original Blogs:
City development puts squeeze on iconic NE business. Research editor Kim Moore writes that gentrification and a lack of parking take a toll on the ReBuilding Center.
Editor’s Note: Border Crossings. Editor Linda Baker previews our July/August issue — and her trip to Baja with Mexico’s West coast consular delegation.
