Portland, OR — In an effort to protect “some of the best and most stable jobs” in rural Oregon communities, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden has called on the Bush Administration to consider the economic impact of its proposal to eliminate certain federal jobs in these communities.

“Restoring Oregon’s economy is my top priority, but it’s going to be harder to get traction on recovery efforts if the Administration insists on pulling the rug out from under us,” Wyden said. “I hope the Administration will consider the impact that eliminating jobs would have on rural communities and their economies before moving forward with this decision.”

The U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB), which assists the President in preparing the federal budget, has proposed eliminating certain federal jobs in rural communities and outsourcing the work. Wyden, while recognizing that outsourcing work can be beneficial in some cases, feels that serious consideration ought to be given to the “social and economic impacts of competitively sourcing certain federal jobs in small, rural isolated communities.”

In a letter to Josh Bolten, Director of OMB, Wyden expressed his concern for smaller communities, writing, “Moving full time public jobs out of small rural communities could have harmful effects, both economic and social. Small communities will lose leaders of local civic clubs, town councils, churches and other volunteer organizations which are important to the very structure of these isolated communities.”

“I’m very concerned about the impact these job cuts could have on the economic and social fabric of rural Oregon communities. When we lose these jobs, we also lose the human side of the equation—kids in local schools, church members, parents cheering at high school football games,” said Steve Grasty, Harney County Judge. “I’m pleased to see that Senator Wyden listened to our concerns and has made this issue a priority.”

Wyden’s letter goes on to request that OMB consult with counties early in the process to get their input and “give priority consideration to local employers” if outsourcing does happen.

“If the Administration proceeds with its plan to eliminate these jobs in our rural communities, I want to at least make sure local folks have a leg up when it comes time to do the work,” Wyden said.

“Senator Wyden’s call for the Administration to include counties in the decision-making process is critical for making sure local governments can work effectively, efficiently and cooperatively with the federal government,” said Marlyn Schafer, Curry County Commissioner. “This could have a huge impact on our rural employment.”

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