Oregon measure restricting boating access fails to advance

A bill that would have banned boats weighing more than 5,000 pounds from towing on a section of the Willamette River failed to pass the Oregon legislature on the last day of the session.

The measure – SB 857, which was opposed by the recreational boating community – also would have extended the length of the restricted section of the river, call the Newberg Pool, to more than 28 miles.

In the months leading up to the legislature’s summer recess, NMMA, the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA), and local boating community stakeholders organized a coalition of supporters to help defeat several boating access challenges in the state, including SB 857.

Moving forward, the coalition will continue working with Oregon policymakers to ensure reasonable and responsible access for all boaters on the Willamette River, as well as additional areas on the river and waterways throughout the state.

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