It was another eventful week in the Oregon Legislative Session as we continued working every day on behalf of Oregon’s tourism and hospitality industries. We successfully mobilized operators and partners for Monday’s hearing on House Bill 4148, which would redirect local economic development funds away from strategic tourism investments that generate year-round visitor spending and strong multiplier effects for small businesses and local communities. 

Midweek, more than 300 industry members and legislators joined us for our Taste Oregon Legislative Reception, where we reinforced the importance of protecting tourism jobs and opposing House Bills 4134 and 4148 through the Save Tourism Jobs campaign. I also appreciated the opportunity to discuss these issues statewide on OPB’s “Think Out Loud” with host Dave Miller. 

Next week begins with a Monday afternoon work session on House Bill 4134 (statewide lodging tax increase) and will likely bring a fast-paced stretch of member alerts and continued opportunities to elevate the voices of Oregon’s small businesses at the Capitol.

As always, don't hesitate to reach out directly to me with questions on these bills.