The OWA Legislative Committee was active during the 2026 Short Session that ended on March 6. We took positions to support and oppose legislation and policy at the state and federal level over the last few months.
There were not many significant agricultural bills this session, as compared to previous years. The OWA Legislative Committee weighed in to oppose SB 1507 several times. The bill disallows certain deductions allowed by federal law for Oregon tax purposes, particularly accelerated depreciation of equipment purchases. It passed and was used to fill a budget hole for the state.
We signed on in support of an Ag Coalition letter to provide support for the OSU Statewides, FFA, and the Japanese Beetle. On a positive note, no reductions were proposed for the Public University Support Fund, OSU Statewides or State Programs. No cuts were made to Oregon FFA and funding was secured for the Japanese Beetle.
At the federal level, the Legislative Committee supported a coalition letter submitted to EPA Administrator Zeldin in February, regarding the importance of safe and effective pesticide products in feeding, fueling, and clothing the world.
Looking Forward:
Lane County Watershed Bill of Rights – May Primary
The initiative allows any person to file lawsuits on behalf of any body of water and connected ecosystems. The measure allows for lawsuits to be filed against any corporate, government, business or nonprofit entity that is alleged to have harmed water or the adjacent environment.
Learn more about the growing opposition to this poorly written measure at Protect Our County – Vote No on Measure 20-373.
IP 28 is Expected to Make the November Ballot – OWA has been opposed to the measure and engaged over the last two years. Petitioners are working to gather and submit 117,173 valid signatures to the Secretary of State by early July. So far more than 100,000 signatures have been submitted.
IP 28 would criminalize routine animal care practices. Processing animals for meat would be illegal. Pest control would be illegal – no ability to control pests and vermin even for public health standards. Hunting and fishing would be outlawed. IP 28 threatens food security, affordability and Oregon’s economy.
An AG-PAC Candidate Tour is scheduled for June 18 in the Washington County area. AG-PAC will be engaged with candidate interviews this summer.
Over the next few months, take time to support you elected officials. Meet candidates running for office. Town Halls are a great opportunity to have conversations with elected officials. Hear updates from the legislative session, ask questions and discuss your concerns.
The OWA Legislative Committee thanks Kathy Ferge for her service on the committee over the last several years and representing the coordinated interests of Eastern Oregon.
Report submitted by Tami Kerr, Char Legislative Committee
Note: The Legislative Committee is part of the OWA(c)5 organization.