During a recent meeting of the Oregon House Committee on Housing and Homelessness, concerns were raised about House Bill 2305, which aims to modify eviction processes in the state. Advocates for tenants voiced strong opposition, arguing that the bill could exacerbate the ongoing housing crisis and lead to increased instability for vulnerable residents.

April Aster, the director of Portland State University Student Legal Services, highlighted the negative impact of evictions, noting that they can follow individuals for an average of seven years, making it difficult for them to secure housing. She emphasized that the proposed changes could allow landlords to exploit tenants further by reducing their protections. Aster urged committee members to reject the bill, stating, "Housing instability is a human right, and policies should protect tenants, not make things harder."

The bill's removal of the "right to cure" provision, which allows tenants to rectify payment issues before facing eviction, was a particular point of concern. Aster explained that this change could lead to more tenants being evicted, even when they might have been able to pay their overdue amounts. She shared a poignant example of a student who faced eviction after the death of her mother, who had been her cosigner. The student struggled to keep up with rent during a difficult time, but the landlord did not offer any support, leading to the eviction process.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the urgent need for policies that prioritize tenant protections and address the root causes of housing instability. As the committee considers the implications of House Bill 2305, the voices of advocates like Aster remind lawmakers of the real-life consequences their decisions can have on Oregonians in need. The meeting concluded with a call for more comprehensive solutions to support those facing housing challenges in the state.