PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Governor Tina Kotek on June 11, 2025, signed a package of 16 new bills into law, addressing critical areas ranging from cannabis regulation and worker protections to housing policy, water rights, and privacy safeguards. The legislative action comes as the state’s 2025 session approaches its scheduled conclusion on June 29.
The signing ceremony marked a significant step in implementing policy changes approved by the Oregon Legislature, reflecting the state’s ongoing efforts to navigate complex social and economic challenges. The newly enacted statutes are set to impact various aspects of life and business across Oregon.
Key Reforms in Cannabis and Hemp Regulation
Among the notable bills signed is SB 162, which introduces significant updates to Oregon’s regulatory framework for cannabis and hemp. This legislation aims to refine oversight and enforcement mechanisms within the state’s established legal marijuana market, while also addressing issues related to illicit operations.
A key provision of SB 162 authorizes law enforcement personnel to destroy hoop houses – greenhouse-like structures frequently used in cannabis cultivation – during the execution of search warrants targeting illegal marijuana operations. This measure is intended to enhance authorities’ ability to dismantle unauthorized grows and disrupt the black market.
Another significant change brought by SB 162 involves retail zoning. The bill repeals the prior restriction that prevented licensed marijuana retailers from being located within 1,000 feet of prekindergarten or kindergarten programs. This change could potentially increase the number of locations available for legal cannabis sales, altering the retail landscape for the industry.
The updates within SB 162 reflect the state’s evolving approach to regulating its cannabis industry, seeking to balance the needs of the legal market with efforts to combat illegal activity and address community concerns.
Addressing Oregon’s Housing Landscape
Legislation concerning housing rules was also part of the package signed by Governor Kotek. While specific details of these housing bills were not immediately available, their inclusion underscores the state’s ongoing commitment to tackling its persistent housing affordability and supply challenges. These new laws are expected to introduce changes aimed at streamlining processes, expanding housing options, or providing relief to renters and homeowners, aligning with the state’s broader housing initiatives.
Safeguarding Worker Protections
The governor’s actions also included signing bills focused on worker protections. These new laws are designed to reinforce and potentially expand the rights and safety of employees across Oregon. Specific provisions within these measures were not detailed, but the area of worker protection remains a priority for the state legislature and the executive branch, aiming to ensure fair labor practices and safe working environments.
Managing Water Rights and Resources
Water rights legislation formed another component of the signed bills. In a state where water resources are vital for agriculture, industry, and environmental health, updates to water rights laws can have far-reaching implications. These new statutes are expected to address issues related to water allocation, usage, conservation, or conflict resolution, crucial for sustainable resource management in Oregon.
Enhancing Privacy Safeguards
Finally, the package included new laws enhancing privacy safeguards for Oregonians. In an increasingly digital age, protecting personal data and privacy rights is a growing concern. The signed legislation is anticipated to introduce new rules or strengthen existing ones regarding how personal information is collected, used, or protected, reflecting a legislative effort to adapt state law to modern privacy challenges.
Looking Ahead to Session End
The signing of these 16 bills marks a significant legislative milestone as the 2025 session progresses. With the session scheduled to conclude on June 29, lawmakers and the governor continue to work towards finalizing the state’s legislative agenda for the year. The breadth of the signed bills highlights the diverse set of issues lawmakers have sought to address during this session, setting the stage for future policy implementation and potential impacts across Oregon.
