State Looks for Way to Curb Budget Shortfall
Oregon lawmakers are considering disconnecting parts of the state’s tax code from federal law in response to House Resolution 1, the budget reconciliation bill passed last July. The state faces a nearly $900 million budget shortfall tied to federal tax changes. Democrats say the proposal would preserve about one-third of that revenue by eliminating 3 federal tax deductions at the state level.
Advocates for working-class Oregonians argue the plan does not go far enough. Annie Naranjo-Rivera with the Oregon Working Families Party said 340,000 Oregonians are facing reduced SNAP benefits and Medicaid cuts, and lawmakers should take stronger action. Democrats say the recovered funds would expand Oregon’s Earned Income Tax Credit and create a new credit for businesses adding jobs. Republicans counter the proposal amounts to a tax increase on most residents. The bill drew about 500 public comments at a hearing last week and remains in a Senate committee.
Free Fishing Weekend
While some are enjoying this weekend’s Wine, Chowder, and Glass Float Trail in Florence, others may be taking advantage of Free Fishing Weekend across Oregon.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife says everyone can fish, clam, and crab for free Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 14 and 15, 2026. No licenses, tags, or endorsements are required for residents or nonresidents.
All other fishing regulations still apply, including bag limits, size restrictions, and closures. Anglers are encouraged to check MyODFW.com for in-season updates.
ODFW expects increased rainbow trout stocking statewide, and reports crab, bay clam, and mussel harvests are open coastwide, with some razor clam restrictions remaining in place.
TLT Tax Under Fire Again
Oregon’s House Bill 4148, which would change how local Transient Lodging Tax dollars can be spent, remains in the House Committee on Revenue following a public hearing Monday. The measure would reduce the required share of TLT revenue dedicated to tourism promotion from at least 70 percent to 40 percent, allowing more money to go toward general city and county services.
At the Feb. 9 hearing, lawmakers heard extensive written testimony both supporting and opposing the bill, with tourism industry groups and chambers warning the change could weaken long-term marketing and economic growth, and local governments arguing for greater flexibility. As of now, no official committee recommendation or vote has been published.
