Bill > SB358

This bill establishes the Ocean Beach Fund in the State Treasury, which will receive one percent of the state transient lodging tax collected at state recreation areas along the ocean shore. The fund will support the State Parks and Recreation Department's management of ocean shore recreation areas, with a broad definition of management that includes activities such as visitor safety, emergency responses, shoreline protection, marine debris removal, and addressing challenges like increased tourism and coastal erosion. The fund can receive money from various sources including donations, legislative appropriations, and investment earnings, and the department is authorized to create subaccounts and use some funds for administrative costs. The bill specifies that these provisions will take effect on the 91st day after the 2025 legislative session adjourns, and the tax allocation changes will apply to lodging charges from January 1, 2026, onwards. This legislation aims to provide dedicated, sustainable funding for maintaining and improving Oregon's coastal state recreation areas.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB358