Bill > HB2403

This bill establishes a framework for creating predator damage control districts in Oregon, allowing landowners to form districts to fund county services that prevent, reduce, and mitigate property damage caused by predatory animals. The bill defines key terms such as "agricultural land," "eligible land," and "predatory animals," which include animals like bears and those listed in existing Oregon law. Landowners who own 10 or more acres of eligible land can petition to form a district, requiring signatures from at least 10 eligible petitioners representing at least 10,000 acres. The bill creates a process for district formation, including public hearings and county clerk verification, and establishes an advisory board composed of five members representing different land ownership types. Landowners can be charged either $2 per acre for tax lots of 10 or more acres or a flat $50 rate for smaller lots, with the ability to opt in or out of the program. The advisory board can recommend charge adjustments annually, and the county can collect these charges through tax rolls or direct billing. The bill explicitly limits who can take legal action to enforce its provisions and specifies that the legislation will take effect 91 days after the 2025 legislative session adjourns. The primary goal is to provide a voluntary, locally controlled mechanism for managing predator-related agricultural and property damage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2403