REPRESENTATIVE BOBBY LEVY CELEBRATES PASSAGE OF SB 777 TO STRENGTHEN OREGON’S WOLF COMPENSATION PROGRAM
By Oregon State Representative Bobby Levy,
SALEM, ORE. – Today, the Oregon House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 777 A, legislation that significantly strengthens Oregon’s Wolf Depredation Compensation and Financial Assistance Grant Program. Representative Bobby Levy (R-Echo), a leading voice for rural Oregon, carried the bill in the House and applauded its successful passage as a bipartisan victory for ranching families and communities impacted by wolf activity.
“I’ve been working on wolf management and depredation issues for nearly two decades, both on the Fish and Wildlife Commission and now in the Legislature. SB 777 A reflects years of hard work and real-world experience—it finally gives our ranchers a fair, workable system that acknowledges the true cost of coexisting with wolves. I’m proud to see it pass with strong bipartisan support,” said Rep. Bobby Levy.
SB 777 A allows for more accurate and fair compensation, including multipliers for confirmed and probable wolf kills—up to five times fair market value for some animals, capped at $25,000. The bill also requires counties to allocate at least 50% of grant funds toward nonlethal deterrence methods, such as fencing, lighting, and range riders. SB 777 A aims to both reduce conflict and improve accountability.
“Senator Nash’s leadership and deep understanding of wolf issues was absolutely critical in getting this bill to the finish line,” said Levy, recognizing the critical role Senator Todd Nash (R-Enterprise) played in moving the bill through the Senate.
“A special thanks to the ranchers, county commissioners and agricultural groups that have helped on the compensation issue for years. As well as to those that suffered financial and emotional hardships, yet still participated in a process that didn’t come close to fully compensating them. We owe a huge thanks. Although SB 777 A will never cover all the losses suffered by livestock owners, it’s a huge step forward. I’m so appreciative of everyone that made this day possible,” said Sen. Todd Nash.
Levy also recognized the strong bipartisan coalition that came together in the House to support the bill, “I am especially grateful to Representatives Annessa Hartman, Ken Helm, and Emerson Levy for helping to bridge urban and rural perspectives and working with me in good faith to get this across the floor. This was a true bipartisan effort, and I’m proud of what we accomplished together.”
SB 777 A now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature.
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