Government Relations, Legislative & Tribal Affairs

OLCC's Government Relations, Legislative & Tribal Affairs office advances the agency's mission to support businesses and public safety through the regulation of alcohol and cannabis, while balancing industry innovation and consumer protection.

Government Relations

Government Relations, Legislative & Tribal Affairs supports the agency’s priorities and ensures they are aligned with the state’s evolving needs. This includes:

Working closely with elected officials and public agencies at the city, county, state and tribal and federal levels.
Coordinating with state legislators, the Governor’s Office, and partner agencies to shape legislation and policy that supports OLCC initiatives.
Providing policy expertise, bill tracking and testimony to ensure OLCC’s regulatory framework reflects public safety priorities while fostering responsible business growth.
Serving as liaison to policymakers and tribal governments to educate and inform public officials about the OLCC’s mission and the important role the agency plays in supporting public health and safety.
Building and maintaining productive relationships with the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon.
Engaging and collaborating with industry stakeholders, community groups and public safety organizations to develop balanced and effective policies.

Government to Government State - Tribal Work

Government Relations, Legislative & Tribal Affairs leads the OLCC’s relationship with Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes. In 2001, Oregon adopted Senate Bill 770 and established a new framework for how best to partner with the federally recognized tribes in Oregon. To reinforce the state’s commitment to meaningful tribal consultation, Governor Kotek issued a memorandum in 2023 on tribal relations. The memo mandates an enhanced, proactive approach to tribal engagement, specifically emphasizing the importance of direct communication, transparency, and collaboration.

As one of the key state agencies to interact closely with federally recognized tribes in Oregon, the OLCC has strengthened its partnership with tribal governments and their economic development organizations. OLCC has also demonstrated respect for tribal authority through the creation and enforcement of regulations governing public health, safety, and economic development. Finally, the OLCC has underscored the importance of respecting tribal sovereignty in our 2024-28 strategic plan.

2025 Legislation Session Summary & Implementation Overview

The Legislative Session was held during a time of financial uncertainty, with Oregon facing a projected $756 million revenue shortfall for the current biennium. Federal funding conditions and the possibility of reductions created challenges for state programs. The Office of Economic Analysis highlighted difficulties with Oregon’s General Fund revenue projections, and federal conditions added complexity to planning for the state’s budget priorities. Lawmakers made budgeting decisions carefully due to limited information about the state’s long-term financial position.

The Legislature approved the agency’s budget after discussions in the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Transportation and Economic Development about its operations and accountability. The budget for this cycle included an increase from the previous period to support the agency’s health and safety programs for Oregon residents. HB 5019 authorized the continued distribution of revenue to the general fund, cities, and counties. This funding addressed uncertainties related to federal funding and supported efforts to manage potential budget gaps.

OLCC Biennial Budget Overview

With the conclusion of the 2025 Legislative Session, OLCC is tasked with implementing new statutory provisions. This process includes developing administrative rules based on legislative requirements and working with other agencies for coordination.

The OLCC policy team, along with the Department of Justice, is drafting rules that align with the law's text and intent. The agency is also collaborating with public health and safety organizations and other regulatory bodies for coordinated efforts. Internally, OLCC is examining its operations, preparing the customer service team with additional resources and training, and modernizing its IT and licensing systems to support stakeholders.

To support the process, OLCC is consulting licensees through advisory committees and public hearings to gather input. This feedback will influence the implementation timeline. OLCC is working with industries and communities to carry out these changes in the near future.

Go to OLCC Rulemaking

Contact

Rosie Shatkin
Legislative and Government Affairs Director; Tribal Affairs Government-to-Government Liaison
503-872-5044 | 971-284-1894 rosetta.shatkin@olcc.oregon.gov