The Oregon State Legislature convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss critical housing issues, with House Bill 3054 taking center stage. This legislation aims to stabilize rents and support residents in manufactured home parks, a pressing concern highlighted by the devastating Almeda fire in 2020, which destroyed thousands of homes in the district.

Representative [Name] emphasized the importance of the Healthy Homes program, which was established to provide essential repairs for residents in both manufactured home parks and traditional housing. The program is designed to assist those whose aging homes no longer meet their needs, enabling them to purchase new homes.

The representative shared personal insights from their district, which historically had the highest number of manufactured homes in Oregon. The catastrophic fire not only displaced families but also dismantled community support systems, leaving many without the help they relied on. "Listening to the pain and despair... I learned even more about our parks," they stated, underscoring the emotional toll on affected residents.

House Bill 3054 is a response to these challenges, aiming to ensure that Oregonians can remain in their homes and communities as they age. The bill reflects a commitment to addressing the unique needs of manufactured home residents, fostering stability in a time of uncertainty.

As the legislature continues to debate this vital issue, the focus remains on providing support and resources to those impacted by the fire and ensuring that all Oregonians have access to safe and affordable housing.