Lawmakers fund housing programs, emergency shelters
In the midst of Oregon’s affordable housing crisis, Oregon House Democrats said Saturday they continue to provide desperately needed revenue to address homelessness and help families find safe and affordable housing.
On Saturday, the Oregon House overwhelmingly passed House Bill 4007 and House Bill 5201, which allocate funds for affordable housing and emergency homeless shelters.
House Bill 4007 increases the document recording fee by $40, allowing Oregon an additional $60 million a biennium to invest in housing programs, including homeless services and prevention, developing and preserving affordable housing, and providing homeownership opportunities for low-to-moderate income families.
“Oregon is experiencing a housing crisis,” said Rep. Alissa Keny – Guyer (D-Portland) who championed the legislation. “The population of homeless students has steadily increased, more than 1 in 4 renters are severely rent-burdened and Oregon ranks among the lowest in the nation for homeownership. House Bill 4007 will help address the housing needs of Oregonians by increasing funding for emergency housing assistance, homeownership programs and increasing the affordable housing supply.”
Twenty-five percent of the funds from the legislation will go to serve veterans.
“Many give lip service to taking care of our veterans, but today the Oregon House of Representative took action,” said Rep. Paul Evans (D- Monmouth ). “The passage of this bill will dramatically increase resources to combat veteran homelessness, provide more affordable rental housing for veterans, and help veterans own their own homes. By expanding the document recording fee, we will raise an additional $15 million a biennium for veterans’ housing.”
The bill also helps Oregonians save for their first home by providing individuals with a tax benefit for funds contributed to a first-time home buyer savings account and used to purchase their first home. The bill passed the House 39 to 20.
“As a Realtor, I’ve seen first-hand the struggles that everyday Oregonians are facing in this housing crisis,” said Rep. Mark Meek (D-Oregon City). “Buying a home helps families to build inter-generational wealth and achieve their American Dream.”
In addition, at the request of Gov. Kate Brown, the Oregon Legislature devoted $5.2 million for emergency winter housing and shelter through the passage of House Bill 5201.
“Every Oregonian deserves a safe, warm place to sleep at night. With this funding, we hope to provide emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness as we continue to take steps to increase our supply of affordable housing.” said Janelle Bynum (D-Happy Valley).
