Advocacy in Action: Chamber Opposes HB 4148 to Protect Local Tourism Investment

The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce recently submitted testimony opposing House Bill 4148, legislation that would significantly change how local Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) revenues are distributed. These revenues are a proven economic development tool, supporting tourism promotion efforts that drive visitor demand, stabilize employment, and grow the overall tax base in Lane County. The Chamber testified before the House Committee on Revenue on February 6, urging lawmakers to protect this critical funding stream.

Tourism is a cornerstone of Lane County’s economy, generating more than $1 billion in annual visitor spending. Dedicated TLT funds allow communities to invest strategically in marketing, destination development, and capital projects that strengthen visitation, particularly during shoulder and off-peak seasons. HB 4148 would dilute those dedicated funds, making it more difficult to pursue high–return-on-investment strategies that ultimately benefit local businesses and provide increased revenue for essential public services.

“The goal is not simply to maintain existing activity, but to grow visitation, stabilize employment, and expand the overall tax base. Policies that dilute these funds make it harder to pursue high ROI strategies that would ultimately generate more lodging tax revenue for both tourism promotion and local government services.”

– Excerpt from the Springfield Chamber’s testimony opposing HB 4148

Effective tourism promotion is not a short-term effort. It relies on sustained, data-informed strategies, including market research, visitor analytics, and long-term planning, to compete with other destinations and attract high-value visitors. Disrupting reliable funding undermines these efforts and weakens the economic returns communities depend on for long-term prosperity.

Chamber members are encouraged to learn more about HB 4148 and make their voices heard. Public testimony can be submitted online through the Oregon Legislature’s website by selecting HB 4148 and choosing the option to submit written testimony to the House Committee on Revenue. Engaging in the legislative process helps ensure that policies support a strong, competitive regional economy. The Chamber will continue to advocate for fiscal policies that promote growth and protect tools that work for our business community.

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Business Advocacy
The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is a trusted convener and provider of business resources. They recognize the systemic interdependencies of a healthy economy and provide an ear and a voice for local business at the confluence of government, commerce, and community. They advocate for business by increasing visibility, dialogue, and representation at local, state, and federal policy circles around issues of impact and interest to their members. Learn more about the Chamber’s Business Advocacy work.