Bill > SB1051

This bill modifies the process for appointing and managing the State Forester in Oregon by shifting the appointment authority from the State Board of Forestry to the Governor, who must now obtain Senate confirmation for the appointment. The State Forester will now serve a four-year term at the Governor's pleasure and be eligible for reappointment. The bill also establishes new qualifications for the position, requiring the State Forester to have organizational management experience and either executive or operational expertise in forest and wildfire management in western forestlands. Additionally, the bill clarifies that during the State Forester's absence, the Deputy State Forester will exercise all authority. The legislation updates compensation provisions, specifying that the State Forester will receive a salary as provided by law or prescribed by the Governor, and allows reimbursement for travel and other expenses incurred during official duties. The bill includes an emergency clause, indicating its immediate implementation upon passage in 2025 to preserve public peace, health, and safety.

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB1051