Oregon's House Committee on Revenue convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss critical wildfire funding measures, with a strong emphasis on House Bill 3940 and its proposed amendments. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions to combat the escalating wildfire crisis in the state.

Key discussions centered around the allocation of funds from the state's rainy day fund. Several speakers, including Carl Kennig from the Oregon State Firefighters Council, advocated for utilizing 100% of the interest from this fund to support wildfire mitigation efforts. Kennig pointed out that the current proposal, which allocates only 20% of the interest, falls short of the necessary funding levels to effectively address wildfire risks. He emphasized the importance of adequate funding for response capabilities, especially as the state faces an already challenging fire season.

Kyle Smith, representing the Nature Conservancy, echoed these sentiments, urging the legislature to consider the long-term benefits of investing in wildfire resilience. He cited a study indicating that every dollar spent on mitigation could yield a return of six dollars in benefits, underscoring the financial wisdom of proactive funding.

Nicole Mann, from the Oregon Small Woodland Owners Association, expressed support for the bill while acknowledging the need for a balanced approach that considers the interests of small woodland owners. She noted that the bill has evolved through collaboration with various stakeholders, aiming to ensure the health and resilience of Oregon's forests.

Brennan Grelts, chair of the Oregon Department of Forestry's Emergency Fire Cost Committee, also voiced support for the bill, highlighting the inadequacies of the current funding framework. He called for immediate legislative action to rectify the funding issues that have historically burdened rural communities and firefighters.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing consensus on the necessity of comprehensive funding solutions to address the wildfire crisis effectively. As Oregon prepares for another potentially devastating fire season, the urgency for legislative action is clear. The committee is expected to continue deliberating on these proposals, with the hope of advancing a robust funding strategy that prioritizes the safety and resilience of Oregon's communities and natural landscapes.