Oregon Legislature Passes Housing Equity Bills Addressing Discrimination, Homelessness

Oregon lawmakers recently engaged in several legislative efforts addressing housing and homelessness. House Bill 2432, which sought to repeal a 2021 law allowing homeless individuals to live on public property, failed by a narrow margin, with Republicans criticizing the current policy for worsening the homeless crisis and limiting local control. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 599, aimed at preventing landlords from discriminating against tenants based on immigration status and expanding acceptable forms of identification, passed both legislative chambers and is headed to Governor Tina Kotek for approval, reflecting Oregon's commitment to protecting immigrant communities. Additionally, House Bill 2698 establishes a state goal to increase homeownership rates to 65% by 2030, with particular attention to closing racial and ethnic homeownership gaps, as Oregon currently ranks 39th nationally and faces a shortage of affordable housing for low-income residents. These legislative measures highlight Oregon's multifaceted approach to addressing housing equity, homelessness, and tenant protections amid ongoing challenges. The efforts underscore a balance between safeguarding vulnerable populations and striving to improve housing stability across the state.