The House Committee on Economic Development, Small Business, and Trade convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss several key legislative measures aimed at enhancing Oregon's trade initiatives and cultural development. The meeting began with the closure of the public hearing on House Bills 2277 and 2322, followed by a work session on House Bill 2756.

House Bill 2756 proposes an appropriation of $500,000 to the Oregon Business Development Department for the establishment of trade centers focused on Taiwan and Vietnam. Additionally, the bill includes amendments that would allow for the creation of up to five additional trade centers. The committee reviewed the fiscal impact, which indicated no revenue implications. After a motion to adopt the dash 2 amendment was made and passed unanimously, the bill was moved to the floor with a recommendation for a "due pass" and referral to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means.

Next, the committee addressed House Bill 3100, which seeks to allocate $3.2 million to develop a unified trade strategy in collaboration with various agencies and stakeholders. This bill also declares an emergency and is effective upon passage. Following a brief discussion, the motion to advance the bill with a due pass recommendation was approved.

The final item on the agenda was House Bill 3048, which directs the Oregon Business Development Department to study the state's arts and culture. The dash 1 amendment replaces the original measure, proposing the creation of a new semi-independent state agency that would merge the Oregon Arts Commission and the Oregon Trust for Cultural Development into a single governing board. The organizational changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2027. After the amendment was adopted, the bill was also moved forward with a due pass recommendation.

In summary, the committee's discussions highlighted a strong focus on enhancing Oregon's international trade relationships and cultural initiatives, with all proposed bills advancing to the next legislative stage. The next steps will involve further review by the Joint Committee on Ways and Means.