'A Win for Wildlife': Oregon State Lodging Tax Ushers in Conservation Victory

PORTLAND, Ore. - A new state lodging tax will generate critical funding for wildlife and habitat conservation and help boost the state's $16.2 billion recreation economy. House Bill 4134 will drive much-needed funds into Oregon's State Wildlife Action Plan, which serves as the state's blueprint for conserving and recovering 321 species of greatest conservation need-a significant increase from 294 in the last iteration-11 types of native habitats needing proactive restoration actions, and iconic and economically important salmon, steelhead and trout. The tax is projected to raise nearly $37 million in revenue per fiscal year to benefit from the California condor and sea otter to the Olympia oyster and Columbia Gorge caddisfly.

"Conservation is in crisis, we have an opportunity to make a profound impact and the state of Oregon has just made a clear commitment to invest in and protect a precious resource. This is a win for wildlife and Oregon has charted a clear and direct path toward smarter conservation measures. It's a blueprint for other states to follow," said Mike Leahy, senior policy director of wildlife, hunting and fishing for the National Wildlife Federation.

HB 4134 passed both chambers of the State legislature with bipartisan support, and was backed by a diverse coalition of more than 80 conservation groups.The bill now awaits Oregon Governor Tina Kotek's signature.

"This is a critical moment for Oregon's fish and wildlife, and House Bill 4134 represents a meaningful step forward. We strongly support this investment, and the vast majority of Oregon's recreational angling community does too," said James Adkins, executive director of the Association of Northwest Steelheaders. Our state is a destination for anglers from across the country - and around the world - who come to experience our iconic fisheries. Investing in the recovery of key species will only enhance these opportunities and the economic benefits they provide. "