Oregon – Official Release: The Let Us Paddle PAC is proud to announce a significant milestone in our grassroots campaign to restore freedom to Oregon’s waterways. On September 9, 2025, the Oregon Elections Division officially determined that Initiative Petition 2026-053 has met the required number of sponsorship signatures. As a result, the Elections Division has formally requested the Oregon Attorney General to draft a ballot title.
Initiative Petition 2026-053 seeks to repeal the law requiring permits for the operation of nonmotorized, human-powered boats—including paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes—on Oregon waters.
“Today’s announcement is a victory for every Oregonian who believes our lakes, rivers, and streams should be open and free from unnecessary government fees,” said Ben Roche, Chief Petitioner and Albany resident. “This is a first step in restoring common sense and delivering recreational access for families, sports enthusiasts, and small businesses who depend on open waterways, fee free.”
Chief Petitioners:
Kari Goodheart, Irrigon, OR, Ben Roche, Albany, OR, Angela Epperson, Hermiston, OR
The Attorney General’s draft ballot title is due by September 17, 2025, marking the next critical step toward qualifying the measure for the November 3, 2026 General Election ballot. Once the ballot title process is complete, Let Us Paddle PAC will launch a statewide volunteer signature-gathering effort to meet the constitutional requirement of valid voter signatures needed to place the initiative before voters.
“This campaign is about fairness,” said Angela J. Epperson, Chief Petitioner. “Oregonians shouldn’t have to pay a tax just to paddle a kayak or take their kids out on a canoe. We are excited to take this next step and give voters a real choice in 2026.”
About the Author
