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Oregon Agriculture asks to fund Japanese beetle market‑access work through fee increase and two positions
Summary
The Oregon Department of Agriculture proposed an $372,490 other‑funds expenditure limitation and two permanent positions funded by an ~18% nursery license fee increase to support compliance work needed to maintain interstate market access for nursery products; one senator recorded a 'No' vote on the motion.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture told the committee it needs a sustainable funding model for its Japanese beetle market‑access work after one‑time funds expired. Deputy Director Jonathan Sandow explained the program previously achieved 'category 1' status for nursery market access but the one‑time funding ended in 2025. ODA seeks statutory authority to raise nursery license fees administratively and is proposing roughly an 18% increase to generate about $372,490 and to finance two permanent positions (1.26 FTE) to provide compliance verification and industry support.
Sandow said the agency would work in partnership with the nursery industry and would use the two new staff to work directly with nurseries to implement compliance agreements required by receiving states. Committee members asked whether industry supported the fee increase and whether general fund gap support would be required while fees take effect; ODA said it expects to manage timing with existing program cash reserves and to coordinate with growers.
Senator Frederick strongly urged stable state funding given the risk of widespread infestation and the potential impact on market access, but the subcommittee moved the LFO recommendation to include the increase and the positions in the 2026 reconciliation bill. A roll call recorded a 'No' from Senator Frederick and 'Aye' votes from multiple other committee members; the motion passed.
