As an advocate for those in our state living in poverty, I applaud Governor Ted Kulongoski’s budget proposal. Contained in the budget are increases in funding for affordable housing projects targeted to support homeless Oregonians, new measures to support those with mental illnesses, expansion of health care insurance programs for children, and increased funding for public education. All these proposals will promote the common good in Oregon. The Legislature should both support and build on the Governor’s budget proposal to do everything possible to decrease poverty and increase opportunity in Oregon.