On February 12, I spent the afternoon at the Oregon State Capitol with Surfrider's Oregon Senior Policy Manager, Charlie, and other environmental advocates and policymakers. We attended a hearing on two key bills addressing plastic waste in Oregon.
My First Visit to the Capitol Building
This was my first time at the Capitol! I wasn’t sure what to expect (and I didn’t anticipate so much construction) but I was immediately struck by the energy of the place. It was a refreshing change from my usual work-from-home routine.
It’s easy to get caught up in the noise of national politics, but walking through Oregon’s Capitol felt different. People were talking, laughing, and having thoughtful, practical discussions. While there will always be disagreements, there was also a palpable sense of engagement and problem-solving. For a moment, it made me feel like progress is possible.
_________________________________________
Breaking Down the Bills
SB 551 - Beyond the Bag Ban
SB 551 sets simple rules to cut down on plastic:
- No plastic checkout bags at restaurants and retailers—paper only.
- Restaurants will only provide single-use utensils and condiment packets if you say yes.
- No tiny plastic bottles in hotels—refillable bottles only.
*Learn more below by downloading our flyer, watching the 60-second Instagram video summary, or tracking and e-subscribing to bill updates here.
SB 526 – Tackling Microplastic Pollution
SB 526 takes the next step in fighting plastic pollution by targeting microfibers—tiny plastic particles shed from synthetic fabrics in the wash.
- New washing machines must have built-in microfiber filters starting in 2030.
- Less plastic in our waterways means cleaner oceans, rivers, and drinking water.
*Learn more by downloading our flyer, watching the 60-second Instagram video summary, or tracking and e-subscribing to bill updates here.
Inside the Hearing
The hearing took place before the Senate Committee on Energy and Environment, where lawmakers reviewed testimony for each of the bills. The room was filled with environmental advocates, industry representatives, and policymakers, all weighing in on the proposed legislation.
In addition to Surfrider Foundation, advocates from Ocean Conservancy, Environment Oregon, OSPIRG, Oceana, and other organizations spoke in support of the bills, emphasizing the urgency of addressing plastic pollution. Some testifiers shared data on the impacts of plastic waste, while others provided firsthand accounts of its effects on Oregon’s communities. While there was some minor pushback from certain industry opponents, the conversation remained productive and solutions-focused.
Above: Charlie Plybon testifies for SB 551 alongside Senator Janeen Sollman and Celeste Meiffren-Swango (Environment Oregon) in Senate Committee on Energy and Environment Hearing. Watch the recording here.
What’s Next?
Testimony for SB 526 (Microfiber Filter Bill) will continue in a future hearing since time ran out before all voices could be heard. Once the testimony is completed, the committee can vote to advance the bills to the full Senate or propose amendments to refine the legislation.
If you want to help push these bills forward, contact your representatives, share our communications tools to spread the word and keep an eye on the Surfrider Legislation Page for updates.
