Lawmakers: career pathways in Ag, forestry

By Oregon Senate Republican Caucus
March 12, 2025

The Senate Education Committee on Monday held public hearings on three bills introduced by Senator Todd Nash (R-Enterprise) in partnership with Representative Bobby Levy (R-Echo) to expand career pathways for students and strengthen Oregon’s workforce in agriculture, forestry, and natural resources.

“Oregon’s agriculture, forestry, and natural resource industries are the backbone of our economy, but they need a skilled workforce to remain strong,” said Senator Nash. “These bills ensure students have access to the education, industry connections, and instructors they need to succeed. By expanding dual credit programs, ensuring students get recognized for hands-on learning, and investing in future educators, we are building a pipeline for the next generation of leaders in these critical fields.”

Expanding Access to Dual Credit & Career Pathways: SB 784 & SB 786

• SB 784 expands Oregon’s dual credit programs to include agriculture, forestry, and
natural resource courses, allowing high school students—particularly in rural areas—
to earn college credit while preparing for careers in foundational industries.

• SB 786 ensures students receive academic credit at public colleges and universities
for participating in Career & Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) like Future
Farmers of America (FFA) and Future Natural Resource Leaders (FNRL).

Ensuring Qualified Educators for High School Agriculture & Natural Resource Programs: SB 785

• SB 785 establishes the Agriculture Education Scholarship Program, covering tuition
for students pursuing degrees in agriculture, forestry, and natural resource education,
provided they commit to teaching in rural communities after graduation.

Senate Bills 784, 785, and 786 work together to ensure students have access to industry-relevant coursework, scholarship support for aspiring educators, and academic credit for
hands-on leadership experiences.