Oregon’s official steak? T-bone could become state symbol

Lawmakers advanced a bill out of committee Monday that would designate the T-bone steak as Oregon’s official state steak.

Senate Concurrent Resolution 13, introduced by Sen. Todd Nash, R-Enterprise, and Rep. Bobby Levy, R-Echo, would designate the cut of beef as Oregon’s latest state symbol. Lawmakers made potatoes the official state vegetable in 2023 and the 2011 Legislature designated Jory soil the official state soil. Other state symbols include the Dungeness Crab, pear, hazelnut and Oregon grape.

“I look forward to having the first Oregon meal that consists of the state vegetable being a potato, the T-bone and a marionberry pie for dessert,” Nash, a cattle ranch owner and a past president of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, told lawmakers during a public hearing Monday.

He said the T-bone — which consists of a strip steak and filet joined by a bone — symbolizes the different qualities and aspects of Oregon united.

Levy said the designation also would recognize Oregon’s cattle ranchers.

All 36 counties produce cattle, and cattle and calves were Oregon’s second-leading agricultural commodity in 2022, with an estimated production value of $800 million a year, according to Levy and a summary from the state Legislative Policy and Research Office.

“By recognizing the T-bone as Oregon’s official state steak, we are not only celebrating an iconic cut of beef but also paying tribute to the ranchers, farmers, and communities who contribute so much to our state,” Levy said.

The Oregon Cattlemen’s Association and Oregon Cattlewomen unanimously voted in support of the legislation, according to Diana Wirth, president-elect of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association.

Wirth said cattle and beef production remains a cornerstone of the agricultural economy and the resolution would be an opportunity to celebrate ranchers and honor the industry.

SCR 13 now heads for a full vote in the Senate and, if approved, to the House of Representatives.

Dianne Lugo covers the Oregon Legislature and equity issues. Reach her at dlugo@statesmanjournal.com or on X @DianneLugo.