Bill > HB2977

This bill increases the state transient lodging tax from 1.5% to 2.5% and creates a new funding mechanism to support wildlife conservation in Oregon. Specifically, the bill changes the existing tax structure so that the first 1.5% of the tax will continue to be transferred to the Oregon Tourism Commission, while the additional 1% will be directed to the newly renamed "Recovering Oregon's Wildlife Fund Subaccount" within the Fish and Wildlife Account. The new subaccount will use these funds to support the Oregon Conservation Strategy and Nearshore Strategy, with a focus on recovering and managing species most in need of conservation. The bill also renames the previous "Oregon Conservation Strategy Subaccount" to the "Recovering Oregon's Wildlife Fund Subaccount" and expands its potential funding sources to include the new tax revenue, habitat conservation stamp sales, gifts, grants, and other contributions. The tax changes will take effect on January 1, 2026, and the overall bill will become effective 91 days after the 2025 legislative session adjourns.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2977