Relating to levees; declaring an emergency.

HB 2693 authorizes Oregon to issue lottery bonds generating $15 million in net proceeds (plus bond costs) by June 30, 2026, to fund levee projects. The money goes to the Levee Project Grant Fund, which provides grants for investigating levee adequacy, repairs, and improvements. Key provisions require applicants to contribute 20% matching funds, limit planning grants to $2 million per applicant, cap construction grants at 80% of project costs, and direct at least 60% of funds to rural or distressed communities. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025, to address levee safety concerns impacting Oregon's infrastructure and economic development.