HB 3173
Establishes the OregonFlora Program at Oregon State University.
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Support
100%
Oppose
0%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes the OregonFlora Program at Oregon State University. The program’s purpose is to collect and share data about native plant life in Oregon, making this information accessible to various groups including government agencies, educational institutions, and the public. The Higher Education Coordinating Commission will provide $400,000 biennially to support the program’s operations.
Key provisions
- Establishes the OregonFlora Program at Oregon State University.
- The program will compile data on native plant life in Oregon.
- Data will be made available through publications, a website, maps, and other tools.
- The Higher Education Coordinating Commission will provide funding to Oregon State University.
- Funding is allocated biennially at $400,000.
Who is affected
- Oregon State University
- State and federal agencies
- Educational institutions
- Businesses
- Scientists
Notable changes
- Creates a new program focused on native plant data collection and dissemination.
- Establishes a dedicated funding stream for the program.
Fiscal impact
The bill appropriates $400,000 biennially from the General Fund to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission for distribution to Oregon State University.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
Cosponsor
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of the legislation emphasize the importance of establishing and funding the Oregon Flora program at Oregon State University, citing its value as a comprehensive resource for exploring and learning about Oregon's native plants and natural habitats. The program is seen as essential for promoting environmental sustainability, preserving the state's history, and supporting conservation efforts, including protecting rare flora and utilizing common flora. Advocates highlight the program's critical role in documenting Oregon's botanic natural resources, promoting native plant incorporation, biodiversity restoration, and pollinator and wildlife habitat creation. They also praise the program as a valuable resource for helping citizens choose native plants, providing accurate information on native plants, and supporting sustainable land use practices. By establishing and funding the Oregon Flora program, supporters believe that Oregon can ensure the long-term conservation of its unique plant species, promote environmental stewardship, and support various stakeholders across the state.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
Opponents of the proposed legislation argue that Oregon HB 3173's requirement for public release of sensitive locality information for threatened and endangered plant species poses a significant risk of vandalism and destruction. They contend that making this information publicly available would compromise efforts to protect these species, potentially leading to harm or exploitation. Some testifiers also express concerns about the potential economic impacts on local communities that rely on sustainable forestry practices, which could be disrupted by the release of sensitive information.