The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss critical funding matters related to higher education in Oregon. The meeting featured testimony from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Oregon Forest Industries Council (OFIC) and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), who expressed support for the budget of the Higher Education Coordinating Commission, particularly programs at Oregon State University (OSU).

Michael Ison, speaking on behalf of OFIC, highlighted the importance of OSU's statewide public service programs, including the Agricultural Experiment Station, Extension Service, and Forest Research Laboratory. He emphasized that these programs are vital for Oregon's agriculture and forestry sectors, providing essential research and outreach that help landowners manage sustainable forestry practices. Ison noted that the Forest Research Laboratory plays a crucial role in addressing challenges such as pest management, climate adaptation, and wildfire resilience, thereby supporting the health and productivity of Oregon's forests.

Additionally, Ison addressed the RMEF's commitment to wildlife conservation, particularly in relation to chronic wasting disease (CWD) affecting deer and elk. He advocated for increased investment in the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at OSU to enhance testing capabilities for CWD, which is critical for both hunters and wildlife biologists.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that public testimony would remain open for 48 hours, allowing additional input from the community. Co-chairs Solman and Ruiz encouraged participants to submit their thoughts and concerns regarding the budget, emphasizing the importance of public engagement in the legislative process. The subcommittee is set to continue its discussions on higher education funding in the coming days, with a focus on finalizing the budget for the next phase.