12/30/2025
Thanks to the passing of Oregon HB 2163, fishing and shellfish harvesting will be more attainable for people with intellectual or develmental disabilities (I/DD) by expanding eligibility for assistance and accommodations. Currently, qualifying disabilities are limited to certain physical conditions and impairments.
The Oregon Legislature passed House Bill 2163 (HB 2163) in May 2025, which expands disability classifications for wildlife laws to include individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD), allowing them to qualify for disability angling/shellfish permits for accommodations like assisted clamming or easier equipment use, effective January 1, 2026.
This bill adds to existing provisions for physical disabilities, making it easier for more people to get permits for special fishing/shellfish access, though standard licenses are still required.
Key Details of HB 2163:
What it does: Classifies people with documented intellectual/developmental disabilities as disabled for angling/shellfish permits.
Why: To help those who can't hold rods, clam guns, or other gear due to these disabilities.
Accommodations: Permit holders can get assistance from another person for things like clam digging or use specific accessible platforms, as detailed in Oregon Department of Fish.
Status: Passed in May 2025, effective January 1, 2026.
Not a License: The permit doesn't replace required licenses (fishing, shellfish) but offers extra help, notes Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS).
Simply said, this allows people with IDD to obtain the support they need so they can fish, crab, and clam, in Oregon. 🦀
More info at ODFW (Jan. 2026): https://myodfw.com/articles/hunters-and-anglers-disabilities
