Bill > HB3544

This bill creates a standardized process for contested case proceedings related to water rights in Oregon, with significant changes to how water use disputes are handled. The bill establishes uniform procedures for hearing contested cases about water use, including requiring the Water Resources Commission and Office of Administrative Hearings to develop a standard process that must be completed within 180 days. Key provisions include mandating default hearing schedules, allowing limited extensions only under specific circumstances, and prioritizing oral testimony. The bill also introduces more structured requirements for filing protests, including specific details that must be included in a protest and timeframes for submission. Protestants must raise all reasonably ascertainable issues at the time of initial protest, and failure to do so can preclude future judicial review. The legislation aims to create more predictable and efficient processes for resolving water rights disputes, with clear timelines and procedural expectations for both the water resources department and individuals involved in contested cases. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for how these new procedures will be applied to existing pending cases, providing a transition period for implementation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3544