SERC's model legislation is based on the Oregon Sustainability Bill (HB 3948).  Sponsored by Rep. Susan Morgan (R-Myrtle Creek), the bill passed unanimously in the Oregon Legislature during the Summer of 2001.  The Oregon Sustainability Act is aimed at allowing business and population growth to continue at no expense or degradation to the environment, a circumstance unrealized anywhere else in the United States.

HB 3948 was initiated by Associated Oregon Industries, the state’s largest industrial trade association, well known for its political influence in the state capitol. The environmental community is often at odds with the association on policy matters, particularly where increased regulations and fees are proposed that might affect its members. 

The association’s lobbyist approached Defenders of Wildlife as a potential partner in the effort because Defenders has a long history of working constructively with industry to accomplish mutually beneficial results. Another primary partner was Governor Kitzhaber, a moderate Democrat with a passion for the environment. The President of Oregon State University, the Dean of the College of Forestry, and director of the Oregon Department of Forestry also played prominent roles in the process. 

The partnership (or “odd couple” according to the Oregonian newspaper), was the main reason for the bill’s success. The business community wanted to do something to demonstrate a commitment to environmental quality without jeopardizing their ability to compete in a global economy.  Most legislators were receptive to a proposal with such diversity of organizational sponsorship.  The next challenge is to demonstrate results to show the Board has value, and then secure enough financial support to keep it functioning until the next session in 2005.  

In the end, despite rancorous debate and widespread skepticism about sustainability among some legislators, the diversity of support and bi-partisan strategy paid off.   This bill, although not perfect, represents a significant step forward, and has the potential to facilitate demonstrable progress toward sustainability over the next few years. Its success will depend on the credibility and performance of the Board and staff, and the 
level of commitment from administering and supporting agencies. 

One thing is certain:  Had supporters insisted on changes that might strengthen the bill from an environmental perspective, the Sustainability Act would have been unacceptable to industry groups and key business legislators and never have become law.  State legislators may want to consider fortifying the Oregon bill with additional measures, including: 

o Institutional home for sustainability effort  
o Coordinating mechanisms among agencies  
o Linkages to international and local efforts  
o Need for integrated, interdisciplinary information and tracking capabilities  
o Funding for administrative activities, research, outreach,  
monitoring  
o Grants to organizations and local communities to help implement strategies.