In response to the recent economic forecast, state agencies — including the Higher Education Coordinating
Commission (HECC) — were asked to provide potential budget reductions to the Governor and Legislature. HECC’s
proposed reductions include the OSU Statewides (OSU Extension, Ag Experiment Station, Forest Research Lab),
Outdoor School, state programs and general funding for public universities. This information will be used to inform
the Governor and Legislature in preparation for budget reduction discussions during the 2026 Legislative Session.
Potential reduction and impacts
HECC has proposed reductions of up to 7.1% (nearly $14 million biennially) for the OSU Statewides. This amount
is not final. These programs are essential to Oregon’s rural communities and natural resource industries. Budget cuts
would disproportionately affect these areas, limit economic growth and reduce support for farms, forests, fisheries,
youth and families.
Cuts of this magnitude could lead to closure of a research facility, loss of approximately 40 positions and reductions
in services and programming. Hiring freezes are already in effect for some state-funded positions in these programs,
and further decisions will follow the 2026 Legislative Session.
