State debt capacity

State debt is a powerful tool that allows governments to better serve the public and improve the quality of life for all of us, while also creating jobs and improving the economy of today and tomorrow. Public bonds facilitate the construction of roads and bridges, education facilities, and shore up buildings to make them more resilient in the event of an earthquake, to name just a few examples.

At the same time, debt must be repaid - with interest. So that means the state must be deliberate to ensure that borrowing remains at a reasonable level.

The State Debt Policy Advisory Commission (SDPAC) tracks Oregon’s financial health and protects Oregon’s credit rating by informing state officials about amount of debt that Oregon can prudently incur. BBorrowing too much would endanger Oregon’s ability to meet its obligations and jeopardize the state’s credit rating.

The prudent management of Oregon’s debt helps to protect Oregon’s excellent credit ratings. Because of Oregon’s strong creditworthiness, we can borrow money for less – and that translates to millions of dollars in savings for taxpayers every year.

The Commission consists of five members: The state Treasurer, who serves as Chair; a Representative and Senator from the Oregon Legislature; a member of the public knowledgeable about public finance; and the director of the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.

Members of the State Debt Policy Advisory Commission

• Tobias Read, Chair
  Ex Officio Member
• Representative Phil Barnhart
  House of Representatives Appointee
• Senator Betsy Johnson
  Senate Appointee
• Timothy Duy
  Public Member
• Katy Coba, DAS Director
  Ex Officio Member