PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — As problems continuously emerged in Oregon during 2020, another remained and was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and wildfires – housing. Options being considered by state lawmakers include building more shelters, extending the grace period by which tenants must pay back their rent, increasing homeownership access to low-income individuals and an effort to reduce housing disparities for communities of color. The 17 bills before the Legislature include $535 million in new state investments for increasing affordable housing, addressing homelessness, and supporting homeownership. Lawmakers say they are also “expecting significant federal support” from the federal government.
Housing remains priority during Oregon’s legislative session
