Oregon

Why It Matters: The 2026 legislative sessions in Oregon and Washington recently concluded, delivering a mix of victories and setbacks for sportsmen and women amid competing priorities and tight budgets in both states. The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), Washington and Oregon Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucuses, and coalition partners helped secure protection and funding in some areas while defending against threats. Staying actively involved with lawmakers, agencies, and […]

Why It Matters: The Oregon Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus (Caucus) has issued strong opposition to Oregon Initiative Petition 28 (IP-28), a ballot measure that, if passed, would criminalize lawful hunting, fishing, trapping, along with other traditionally accepted practices such as wildlife management, pest control, animal husbandry, and agriculture.  Highlights:  IP-28 would eliminate exemptions from animal abuse statutes for lawful hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife management, pest control, and standard agricultural practices.  The loss…

Why It Matters: State fish and wildlife agencies in the Pacific Northwest are facing significant budget pressures amid economic challenges and competing demands for decreasing state general funds. In Oregon and Washington, directives for cuts and proposed reductions threaten core conservation programs, habitat management, and recreational access that sportsmen and women rely on.   Highlights  In preparation for the 2026…

Why It Matters: Interim committee meetings provide valuable insight into the legislative priorities for the coming legislative session and offer sportsmen and women an opportunity to engage with legislators on policies impacting hunting, fishing, trapping, recreational shooting, and other conservation issues. Early stakeholder involvement can help shape outcomes that support science-based wildlife management and access…