Oregon lawmakers discuss funding wildfire prevention through Senate Bill 1177

A bold proposal to tackle Oregon's escalating wildfire costs took center stage at the Senate Committee on Finance and Revenue meeting on April 7, 2025. Senate Bill 1177 aims to utilize the state's "kicker" tax dollars—funds that would typically be returned to taxpayers—to create a permanent fund for wildfire management. Proponents argue this one-time investment could significantly reduce the need for recurring funding requests every two years.

Senator Golden emphasized the urgency of the bill, stating, "If we don't pass it, we'll be back here scooping up their tax dollars or lottery dollars for wildfire every 2 years again and again." He framed the bill as a proactive measure, suggesting it represents a cost-effective insurance policy for Oregonians against the growing threat of wildfires.

Representative Mark Gamba echoed these sentiments, highlighting the necessity of finding a sustainable funding source for wildfire management. He criticized alternative proposals, such as taxing the bottle bill, which could disrupt successful recycling systems. Gamba argued that using already collected taxes to fund wildfire efforts is a more sensible approach than creating new sales taxes.

The discussion also revealed tensions regarding the prioritization of funding for rural versus urban needs. Vice Chair McLean expressed skepticism about the general fund's commitment to wildfire suppression, suggesting that rural areas often receive less attention in funding decisions.

As the committee deliberates, the fate of Senate Bill 1177 remains uncertain, but its potential to reshape Oregon's wildfire funding strategy is clear. If passed, it could mark a significant shift in how the state addresses the growing challenges posed by wildfires, ensuring that Oregonians are better prepared for the future.