Stable Homes for Oregon Families statement on committee passage of HB 2004

Salem, Ore. – On Thursday, the House Committee on Human Services and Housing voted to pass HB 2004, which protects Oregon renters from no-cause evictions while preserving property rights for landlords. The bill also gives local communities the legal right to create common-sense rent stabilization policies that work for best for their renters and landlords.

Upon passage, Pam Phan, Policy and Organizing Director for the Community Alliance of Tenants, issued the following statement on behalf of Stable Homes for Oregon Families:

“We applaud the committee voting in favor of HB 2004 and thank the Oregon lawmakers who responded to the testimony of tenants, landlords, business owners, faith leaders, and community members about how Oregon’s housing crisis if affecting their communities.

“Passage of HB 2004 today shows that lawmakers are taking important steps to address the effect of our state housing crisis on Oregonian renters who are under constant risk of sudden and excessive rent increases and evictions without cause. Oregonians particularly vulnerable to displacement are people of color, those who work for low-wages, seniors and those with disabilities on fixed incomes.

We urge quick passage of the bill by the full House of Representatives so that hearings can begin immediately in the Senate. Too many Oregonians are at risk of displacement and homelessness today without the protections of HB 2004, We look forward to the day this legislation crosses to Governor Brown's desk for her signature, and the 40 percent of Oregonians who rent their homes can walk through their door to their home secure in the knowledge tha it can't be taken away suddenly and without a valid reason.

Contact: Pam Phan, Community Alliance of Tenants, pam@oregoncat.org or 541.590.2289