The House Committee on Housing and Homelessness convened on April 21, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding rental data transparency and the impact of private equity in Oregon's housing market. The meeting highlighted the lack of accessible information regarding rental prices and the number of housing units available, which has hindered cities' ability to address housing needs effectively.

Committee members expressed concern that cities currently lack reliable data on rents and housing units. As one member noted, landlords are not required to disclose rental prices, leaving cities without a clear understanding of the housing landscape. This gap in information complicates local planning and policy-making efforts.

A significant point of discussion was the potential role of private equity in the housing market. One committee member referenced differing opinions on the extent of private equity's involvement in Oregon, suggesting that further investigation is necessary to clarify its impact. The committee aims to establish a clearer picture of private equity's role and monitor changes over time.

Privacy concerns regarding the proposed data collection were addressed, with assurances that the information would be aggregated and not linked to individual properties. This approach aims to protect personal data while providing cities with essential insights into housing trends.

Additionally, the committee discussed the benefits of a property registry, which would help officials identify property owners in case of issues. This transparency could enhance accountability and facilitate communication between local authorities and property owners.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for improved data collection and transparency in Oregon's housing market, as officials seek to better understand and address the challenges of housing affordability and availability. The committee's next steps will likely involve further discussions on implementing a comprehensive data collection system to support local planning efforts.