HB 4132 engages tribes and fisheries to continue protecting the Oregon coast
SALEM, OR – Today, the Oregon Senate passed House Bill 4132, which builds on the success of Oregon’s marine reserves program, with wide bipartisan support. Based on the recommendations from the 10-year review study conducted by Oregon State University, this bill calls on the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to create a management plan for Oregon’s five marine reserves that will continue to protect the Oregon coast, a vital economic and cultural hub for the state.
“This bill builds on the findings of the Marine Reserves Program by communicating vital scientific research back to communities to ensure collaboration between coastal stakeholders – yielding informed policy decisions in the future. This is the Oregon way,” said Senator Dick Anderson (R – Lincoln City), who carried HB 4132 on the Senate floor.
The bill also directs ODFW to work with tribes, fisheries, and local communities to make sure that the scientific work being done on the reserves incorporates regional knowledge and is usable for the communities on the coast.
“Oregon’s marine reserves are so important to the long-term health and stability of our beautiful coast. This bill is going to help this program stay flexible and adaptive, which is especially important as our coastal communities navigate the uncertainties of climate change,” said Senator Janeen Sollman (D – Hillsboro), chair of the Senate Energy and Environment Committee.
Both Senate Democrats and Republicans agree that protecting Oregon’s vital natural resources is a key priority for the 2024 session. HB 4132 now heads to the Governor’s desk.
