Oregon’s legislature has passed a new bill. This bill expands agritourism options for farmers. House Bill 4153 will soon go to Governor Tina Kotek’s desk. The governor supports the legislation. It aims to help farmers diversify their income. However, some critics call the bill short-sighted.
What HB 4153 Allows
This new law updates rules for “farm stores.” It replaces the older “farm stand” designation. Farm stores can now be larger. They can reach up to 10,000 square feet. The bill removes strict revenue caps. Previously, farmers had to derive at least 75% of their income from farm products. The new rules focus more on building space. Up to 25% of a farm store’s space can now hold retail items. These include gifts and apparel. It also permits more sales of prepared foods and beverages. Agritourism activities are also clarified. These include farm tours and educational exhibits. Crop mazes, play structures, and farm-to-table meals are included. Hay rides and seasonal events are also permitted. In essence, the bill creates a clearer path for farms to host visitors and sell goods.
Support for Modernizing Farming
Supporters argue HB 4153 is vital. It helps modern farm businesses thrive. Farming today faces many economic challenges. Diversifying revenue streams is crucial for survival. Groups like the Oregon Farm Bureau support the bill. They believe it clarifies existing, often ambiguous, land-use laws. Property rights advocates also back the legislation. They state it allows growers to diversify income streams. Representative Vikki Breese Iverson, a chief sponsor, says it clarifies law. She believes it balances farm protection and economic opportunity. Farmers themselves see benefits. Peter Kessinger of Plumper Farms notes its help. It allows farms to continue beloved experiences. These experiences help keep small farms in business. This legislation offers certainty for agritourism operations. It prevents costly legal battles over permits. Families can explore and enjoy these farm experiences more easily. It helps farms keep their land in production for future generations.
Critics Raise Preservation Concerns
Opponents express significant worries. They fear the bill could undermine Oregon’s land-use system. Critics include land conservation groups. The Oregon Agricultural Trust is one such group. They worry the bill invites tourist attractions. These attractions may have little connection to actual farming. This could turn productive farmland into tourist destinations. Some farmers also oppose the bill. Aaron Nichols, a Hillsboro farmer, fears this. He worries his area could become a tourist spot. This could harm its identity as a farming region. Concerns also exist about commercial development. Critics believe the bill could allow non-agricultural businesses to dominate farm properties. This might raise land prices. It could make farmland unaffordable for new or small farmers. The bill’s “guard rails” are questioned. Some argue it creates carve-outs for commercial activities. This could make farming secondary to retail use. Friends of Family Farmers also have objections. They note it could create a confusing two-tiered system. They fear it limits opportunities for small farms. The bill’s input process also drew criticism. Some believe it was crafted with limited farmer consultation.
A Legislative Solution
This legislative push follows earlier regulatory struggles. In 2025, Governor Kotek paused a Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) rulemaking process. Public outcry from farmers and citizens led to that pause. Many felt the proposed rules were too restrictive. The DLCD process was intended to clarify farm stand rules. However, it sparked fears of burdensome regulations. Governor Kotek then redirected the issue to the legislature. She emphasized finding a balance. She stated supporting farms and preserving the land-use system were both goals. HB 4153 emerged as a bipartisan solution. It passed the House and Senate. Its journey reflects a desire for clarity. It addresses the ongoing debate over farm use and visitor access.
Balancing Farm Viability and Land Preservation
The new law seeks a balance. It allows farms to supplement income. This can help them survive economically. It acknowledges modern agricultural realities. However, critics remain concerned about unintended consequences. They worry about the long-term impact on Oregon’s farmland. Supporters believe safeguards exist. They point to requirements like farming over half the land. They also note caps on farm store size. The bill allows counties to regulate traffic and noise. The core debate centers on ensuring agritourism supports farming. It should not overshadow or replace primary agricultural use. As this news unfolds, Oregon watches its rural future. The legislation aims to support farmers. It also seeks to protect the state’s valued land-use principles.
