Oregon lawmakers voted Tuesday to give renters until next February to catch up on their back rent.
As the coronavirus pandemic unfolded last year, Oregon lawmakers voted to give renters the freedom to delay paying their rent. They extended that grace period again last winter, but it expires at the end of June.
Senate Bill 282 would extend it again, through the end of February. Rep. Wlnsvey Campos, D-Aloha, said people who are still struggling with employment setbacks need more time to catch up.
“I ask that we set aside the myth that the majority of renters aren’t doing everything they can to pay their rent, and instead focus on supporting Oregon’s tenants and landlords by passing this bill," said Campos.
Opponents said landlords are also struggling and said a fund meant to help struggling property-owners hasn’t come through.
"I haven't heard yet of a landlord that has actually received funding from the Landlord Compensation Fund," said Rep. Kim Wallan, R-Medford. "Not one."
The bill is now on its way to the desk of Gov. Kate Brown.