Oregon : 2023 Regular Session : BILL SB58
Relating to cloud seeding.
Sponsor: Rep Lynn Findley
Bill Details
Makes certain findings concerning cloud seeding. Makes certain findings concerning cloud seeding. Provides Water Resources Department with specified authority concerning cloud seeding.
Bill summary
This bill, Senate Bill 58, addresses the regulation and implementation of cloud seeding in the State of Oregon. It defines "cloud seeding" as actions taken to artificially distribute or create nuclei in cloud masses to induce precipitation, while explicitly excluding fog suppression and frost prevention measures.
Key findings of the Legislative Assembly in the bill highlight the importance of a reliable water supply for Oregon's economy and welfare. The bill asserts that developing a cloud seeding program through the Water Resources Department will present opportunities to augment and sustain water resources in the state. The public benefits of cloud seeding are noted to include the protection of water rights and support for municipal, business, and recreational activities dependent on water, as well as drought mitigation. It emphasizes the need for additional research to understand the potential impact of cloud seeding on increasing water supplies effectively.
The bill proposes several authorities and responsibilities for the Water Resources Department, including adopting rules for cloud seeding programs, ensuring compliance with state water laws, and potentially creating local or statewide cloud seeding initiatives. It allows for contracting outside assistance for program development and research and mandates that if cloud seeding is assessed in the Deschutes Basin, the department must report its findings to the Legislative Assembly. Furthermore, the bill provides that cloud seeding activities authorized by the department will not incur legal liabilities for trespass or public nuisance and will not be subject to state or local permitting requirements.
History
The bill was introduced in January 2023 and has passed through several stages in the legislative process. It was referred to the Natural Resources committee, where a public hearing took place in March. However, a motion to withdraw the bill from this committee was attempted in April but ultimately failed, indicating some opposition. As of June 2023, the bill remains "in committee upon adjournment," meaning that its progress is currently on hold while awaiting further action from the committee. The next steps will involve the committee revisiting the bill to possibly advance it to the next legislative stage or voting it out; otherwise, it may remain stalled indefinitely.
- Mon 09 Jan 2023 Introduction and first reading. Referred to President's desk.
- Wed 11 Jan 2023 Referred to Natural Resources.
- Wed 15 Mar 2023 Public Hearing held.
- Wed 12 Apr 2023 Motion to withdraw from committee on Natural Resources failed. Ayes, 13; Nays, 16--Campos, Dembrow, Frederick, Gelser Blouin, Golden, Jama, Lieber, Manning Jr, Meek, Patterson, Prozanski, Sollman, Steiner, Taylor, Woods, President Wagner; Excused, 1--Gorsek.
- Wed 12 Apr 2023 Vote explanation(s) filed by Sollman.
- Sun 25 Jun 2023 In committee upon adjournment.
Supplementary documents
No supplementary documents available