Oregon House and Senate Republicans introduced legislation on March 18 that would repeal the state’s wildfire hazard map. The new piece of legislation is meant to address community frustrations around rising insurance costs and threats to property values.
The map, which came out of Senate Bill 762, classifies lots as low-, moderate- or high-hazard zones to educate residents about their risk and assist in prioritizing mitigation resources. The map also aims to identify where defensible space and home hardening codes may apply in the future.
According to a press release, House Bill 3944 will repeal the map and the “extreme regulations it places on landowners and homeowners.” The bill would require state agencies to focus wildfire efforts in areas that are most cost-effective, while protecting access to financial resources that rural communities can use to safeguard homes.
“It’s unfair to penalize property owners while our state and federal governments fail to manage our forests and public lands,” said Rep. Christine Drazan (R-Canby), House Republican Leader. “This bill empowers rural Oregonians by allowing them to make decisions on how to manage their properties.”
In recent months, legislators have been working to find a solution that balances the need for fire mitigation strategies, while attempting to alleviate concerns from those in “high-hazard” zones.
In late February, Sen. Anthony Broadman, who represents Central Oregon, called for a full repeal of the map, declaring it a distraction from the work the region is already doing on fuels reduction, community hardening and preparation for the fire season ahead.
A public hearing and possible work session on HB 3944 is scheduled for April 8.
This article appears in The Source Weekly March 20, 2025.
MAKE LOCAL JOURNALISM HAPPEN
Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.
