1. United States
2. Ore.
3. Letter

Establishing a dedicated funding source for wildfire prevention and mitigation efforts is crucial to safeguarding our communities and natural resources. While proposals like a bottle surcharge or tapping into the taxpayer kicker fund have merit, redirecting lottery revenues presents a more balanced approach. By investing a portion of lottery proceeds into a trust fund specifically earmarked for wildfire prevention initiatives, we can ensure a consistent and reliable stream of funding without overburdening taxpayers or compromising existing programs. This proactive measure aligns with prudent fiscal management and underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship. A trust funded through lottery revenues would enable vital projects like prescribed burns, forest thinning, and public education campaigns, ultimately reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires and their associated costs. I urge you to prioritize this sustainable funding solution in the legislature's wildfire agenda.