SB 745 celebrates 50th anniversary of Oregon’s Beach Bill with reinvestment, April 7

Sen. Arnie Roblan (D-Coos Bay) has proposed legislation that will help clean up Oregon’s beaches, while also boosting tourism in coastal communities. Senate Bill 745 would establish the Ocean Beach Fund, to be administered through the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The funds would be dedicated to improving visitor experience, safety and the necessary resource management to ensure the ecological and economic value of Oregon’s public beaches for future generations. “We have 362 miles of ocean beaches in Oregon that provide breathtaking vistas and numerous recreational opportunities,” Roblan said. “They also support important economic activities for coastal communities. Investing in our beaches and coastal communities allows us to build on, enhance and further cultivate the potential of our tourism industry.” Roblan noted that it is particularly appropriate to make a commitment at this time to the revitalization of our beaches, as this year marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of the original Oregon Beach Bill. That legislation guaranteed public access to Oregon’s beaches. Half a century later, it is essential to use our beach and water resources wisely for the present, while preserving and protecting them for future generations. Travelers to the coast who enjoy our beaches and tourist infrastructure represent an estimated $2.4 billion in direct expenditures annually. As the number of visitors to our coast increases, so does the need for improved public safety, emergency response, marine debris cleanup and recreational services. Provisions also must be made to address the damage done by erosion and severe storm events. “On the coast our beaches are the main draw, so it makes sense to invest a small amount of money to keep our beaches desirable and pristine,” Roblan said. “In doing so, our coastal communities will reap a huge pay-back in tourist dollars and an improved quality of life. This investment will be good for the beaches, good for the environment and good for the coastal economy.”
The bill did pass out of Natural Resources Wednesday, April 5.