Oregon House advances Bill 2977 to increase transit tax for wildlife funding

Oregon's House Committee on Revenue has taken significant steps to enhance funding for wildlife conservation and combat environmental challenges. During a meeting on June 17, 2025, the committee approved Senate Bill 4548, which will now move to the House floor with a recommendation for passage.

The committee also discussed House Bill 2977, which proposes an increase in the transit and lodging tax by 1.25 percentage points. This increase is designed to generate substantial revenue for the Recovering Oregon's Wildlife Fund, as well as to support initiatives aimed at combating poaching, invasive species, and promoting wildlife stewardship. The projected revenue impact of the bill is significant, with estimates of $48.8 million for the 2025-2027 biennium, $90.3 million for 2027-2029, and $99.9 million for 2029-2031.

The meeting included a lively discussion about the proposed amendments to the bill. The committee adopted a dash-5 amendment, which was supported by some members for its collaborative approach to addressing various funding needs. However, dissenting voices expressed concerns about the affordability of living in Oregon, highlighting the burden of additional taxes on residents and visitors alike.

Despite the mixed reactions, the committee ultimately moved House Bill 2977, as amended, forward with a recommendation for passage. This decision underscores the committee's commitment to addressing both environmental issues and the financial implications for Oregonians.

As the bill progresses, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these changes will impact wildlife conservation efforts and the broader economic landscape in Oregon.