Oregon 2023 Regular Session

Oregon House Bill HB3003

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/16/23  
Refer
3/24/23  
Refer
3/24/23  

Caption

Relating to a tax credit for energy produced using western juniper biomass; prescribing an effective date.

Impact

The provisions of HB3003 are intended to amend current state taxation laws by introducing a specific tax credit aimed at energy producers employing western juniper biomass. This change could lead to increased utilization of this biomass, which is often considered a nuisance species, thereby potentially lowering the costs associated with disposal and increasing the economic viability of energy produced from this source. The bill could also have positive downstream effects by encouraging job creation in sectors involved in both energy and conservation efforts.

Summary

House Bill 3003 (HB3003) proposes a tax credit for energy generated from western juniper biomass, aiming to encourage the use of this natural resource for energy production. The bill is positioned as a measure to promote renewable energy and sustainability initiatives within the state. By incentivizing the energy industry to utilize western juniper biomass, HB3003 seeks to support both environmental conservation efforts and economic development in the region, helping to reduce waste while promoting cleaner energy alternatives.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB3003 revealed a predominantly positive sentiment among supporters, who view the bill as a forward-thinking approach to addressing both energy production and environmental challenges. Proponents argue that the initiative will not only promote renewable energy but also assist in managing invasive species by turning them into a usable resource. However, some concerns were raised about how the implementation of such credits might affect state tax revenues and whether the tax incentives would be sufficient to stimulate substantial growth in the biomass energy sector.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB3003 include debates over the effectiveness of tax credits as a means of fostering growth in the biomass energy sector. Some critics question whether the benefits of the tax credit would outweigh fiscal impacts on state budgets. While proponents argue that promoting energy from biomass can lead to significant environmental benefits and economic opportunities, skeptics are cautious about the potential for misuse or insufficient uptake of the credits. This contention highlights the ongoing tension between fostering regional energy independence and ensuring responsible financial stewardship.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR HB2685

Relating to tax credits for woody biomass; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB2550

Relating to tax credits for business facilities; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3004

Relating to renewable energy; prescribing an effective date.

OR SB1502

Relating to tax credits for small forestland owners; and prescribing an effective date.

OR SB251

Relating to energy; prescribing an effective date.

OR SB656

Relating to energy; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB2493

Relating to tax credits for development of affordable housing; prescribing an effective date.

OR SB1524

Relating to taxation; and prescribing an effective date.

OR HB4015

Relating to battery energy storage systems; and prescribing an effective date.

OR HB2653

Relating to tax credits for the preservation of publicly supported housing; prescribing an effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.