The House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water convened on February 17, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding water utility affordability and support for low-income residents in Oregon. A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing challenges faced by public water and wastewater utilities, particularly in light of the financial strains exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that many utilities across Oregon voluntarily chose not to disconnect services during the pandemic, recognizing the essential role of water in public health. This decision was supported by federal funding that assisted over 18,000 individuals, although it was noted that approximately 500,000 Oregonians are eligible for such assistance under federal guidelines.

The discussion underscored the disparity between larger and smaller utilities in their ability to provide financial assistance to low-income customers. Larger utilities often have the resources to create assistance programs, while smaller utilities struggle to do so due to limited ratepayer bases. The committee acknowledged the pressing need for additional funding to support these smaller communities, which are facing significant financial challenges.

The meeting also addressed the rising costs of water and wastewater services, with many residents paying more than the recommended 2% of their annual income for these essential services. The representatives discussed the historical shift in funding responsibilities from the federal government to local ratepayers, noting that federal contributions to infrastructure costs have dramatically decreased over the decades.

As the committee concluded, there was a consensus on the urgent need for legislative measures to enhance funding for water utility assistance programs, particularly for smaller communities that are struggling to meet the needs of their residents. The discussions set the stage for potential future actions aimed at improving water affordability and ensuring equitable access to essential services across Oregon.