The Senate Committee on Labor and Business convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure investments in Oregon's shipyards, particularly focusing on the Charleston Shipyard at the Port of Coos Bay. The meeting highlighted Senate Bill 921-1, which aims to revitalize the marine ways system essential for hauling and repairing large vessels.

Kyle Stevens, a commissioner from Keesbury, emphasized the bill's potential to create dozens of skilled jobs in the maritime sector, including welders and electricians. He noted that comparable shipyards on the Oregon Coast have experienced a 40% increase in employment due to enhanced haul-out capacity. The restoration of the marine ways is seen as a vital step to recapture economic activity that has been lost to other states, as many large fishing vessels currently travel to California and Washington for repairs.

Senator Brock Smith, representing the region, underscored the historical significance of the Charleston Shipyard, which has been a major economic driver for the community. He pointed out that the existing marine ways system is outdated and often requires vessels to wait for specific tidal conditions to be serviced, which is inefficient and detrimental to local businesses.

The proposed amendment to the bill includes a funding request of $1.43 million from the general fund to repair the marine ways, which has not seen significant investment in over 45 years. This funding is crucial for maintaining the shipyard's operations and supporting the local fishing industry, which is vital for the region's economy.

Several stakeholders, including commercial fishermen and economic development representatives, voiced their support for the bill, highlighting the urgent need for a functional shipyard to prevent costly delays and ensure the safety of vessels. The closure of nearby shipyards has increased the demand for services at Charleston, making the revitalization of its marine ways even more critical.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions reflect a strong consensus on the importance of investing in Oregon's maritime infrastructure to bolster job creation, economic resilience, and the overall health of coastal communities. The bill is set to move forward for further consideration, with an emphasis on exploring sustainable funding mechanisms to support ongoing maintenance and improvements.