Senate Natural Resources committee advances bill to clarify angling equipment access for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities

The Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire voted unanimously April 17 to advance House Bill 21‑63, which would expand the definition of “person with disability” in Oregon wildlife statutes to include people with intellectual or developmental disabilities that impair their ability to hold or operate standard angling or shellfish‑harvesting equipment.

In a brief work session, Alexa — the staff reader — summarized the bill: “House bill 21 63 adds provisions to ORS 496.018, person with disability under wildlife laws, to include individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities that impair their ability to hold or operate standard angling or shellfish harvesting equipment.” Chair Golden then accepted a motion to move the bill to the floor with a “do pass” recommendation. Vice Chair Nash moved the motion; the roll call recorded a 5‑0 vote to advance the measure.

Committee discussion during the work session was minimal and limited to the staff summary and the formal roll call. After the vote, Chair Golden asked Senator Rob to carry the bill to the Senate floor.

Because the committee took formal action to advance the bill, it will next be scheduled for floor consideration. The work session record does not show any amendments adopted during the committee action.

Votes at a glance: House Bill 21‑63 — Motion: move to floor with do‑pass recommendation; mover: Vice Chair Nash; outcome: passed 5‑0.

Speakers in the work session included Chair Golden, Vice Chair Nash, the staff reader (Alexa) and senators present for the roll call.