Today's News: March 22, 2011

Happy Tuesday!

Under tobacco lobbyist Mark Nelson, the corporate lobby has given itself a new name--The Oregon Committee--and a weekly lunch meeting. The agenda, tax breaks for big corporations and the rich, remains unchanged. Nelson threatens defectors with knee-capping, and admits that the corporate lobby is focused on putting Republicans in the majority.

The House Business and Labor Committee hears a bill to lower the minimum wage for young workers. Committee members, perhaps remembering how well that idea worked out for Chris Dudley, appear to be taking a pass.

Budget woes continue for public safety, prisons, and the Legislature passes bills extending unemployment benefits.

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