Preparing for the 2027 Legislative Process
The Oregon State Marine Board will hold ten Town Halls in fall and winter 2026. Local boaters are invited to learn about the agency and the ideas it plans to take to the 2027–2029 legislative session. These Town Halls give people a chance to meet staff, ask questions, and understand what the Marine Board does. They also help the agency learn about the issues that matter most to you and collect your feedback early in the process. The Marine Board is always working to improve boating laws and services for recreational boaters.
Timing and the Process:
Every two years, state agencies start planning for their next budget, which must be approved by the Oregon Legislature. As part of this process, Marine Board staff shared two legislative ideas with the five‑member Board in summer 2026. These ideas were based on feedback from staff, interested groups, and agency partners. After discussing these ideas at a public meeting, the Board may suggest changes or approve them. Then, the idea goes to the Department of Administrative Services (DAS). If DAS approves it, the idea goes to the Governor's Office. If the Governor's Office supports it, the idea is sent to Legislative Counsel, where it is written into a bill.
Scheduled Town Halls
Town Hall meetings will be held in an open‑house style, so people can come and go as their schedules allow. Staff experts and managers will be there to answer any questions.
LEGISLATIVE CONCEPT SUMMARIES:
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Motorboat Registration and Other Fees
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The Agency's Budget Bill
Relating to the financial administration of the State Marine Board, declaring an emergency. Limits biennial expenditures from fees, monies, or other revenues, including Miscellaneous Receipts, but excluding lottery funds and federal funds, collected or received by the State Marine Board.
The Legislative Process
Once a legislative concept becomes a bill, it follows this process: