WPMA News / Spring 2026 55 State Report HB 4007 Amendment (Failed): A proposal to eliminate the requirement for voter approval of local gas taxes was introduced but ultimately dropped due to swift opposition and media attention orchestrated by OFA and our allies. We remain vigilant, as similar ideas may resurface in future sessions. OD OT Budget Adjustments: Facing a $200 million shortfall in its 2025–27 biennial budget due to declining transportation revenues, the Legislature and Governor stabilized ODOT through temporary fund shifts from programs like Safe Routes to Schools to core operations. Longer-term funding debates continue. • Tax Policy: SB 1507 (Passed): This bill disconnects Oregon from federal tax conformity, curtailing Section 179 bonus deprecia- tion and limiting deductions like car-loan interest, raising approximately $300 million in near-term revenue. This move increases taxes on businesses and consumers while discouraging investment. Referral efforts led by Repre- sentative Ed Diehl are expected to start soon after the Governor’s anticipated signature. • Climate and Energy Policies: SB 1541 Climate Superfund (Failed): A proposal to recov- er climate change-related costs from oil and gas producers passed out of committee but died in Ways and Means, fail- ing to advance before adjournment. CEI Hub and Fuel Storage Bills: HB 4032 (Failed): A bill to evaluate emergency fuel stor- age sites for supply resilience was not funded and died at adjournment. HB 4100 (Passed): This requires bulk oil and liquid fuel terminal operators to obtain financial responsibility cer- tificates from DEQ and establishes state preemption over local requirements, a critical win for consistency in fuel terminal regulation. HB 4129 (No Hearing): A proposal to cap greenhouse gas reductions under the Low Carbon Fuel Standard at 10% below 2010 levels and prohibit local restrictions on fossil fuel terminal storage capacity did not receive a hearing but is expected to resurface in 2027. • Economic Development and Labor: HB 4084 (Passed): Establishes a Joint Permitting Council to streamline approvals for economic projects, aiming to boost transparency and investment in Oregon. HB 4102 (Passed): Enhances DEQ’s “receipts” authority, allowing private companies to expedite permits via third- party consultants, a bipartisan win for reducing delays. HB 4147 Shame List (Failed): A proposal to list businesses whose employees use Oregon Health Plan subsidies, with associated fees, died before adjournment but signals future debates over business taxes. HB 4089 Wage Theft (Passed): Narrowed to focus on con- struction, this bill criminalizes certain wage theft practices, a concerning trend in employment law. Highlights from the WPMAEXPO in Las Vegas I had another great year at the WPMAEXPO. Julia Landauer, a Motorsports Racing Driver, spoke at the ladies luncheon, while Tim Tebow delivered the keynote at the Business Session, highlighting the power of perseverance and passion. His personal stories of success resonated with the audience, serving as a reminder that dedication can yield remarkable results. Beyond his achieve- ments, Tebow’s commitment FUELING OREGON
View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.