The House Committee on Housing and Homelessness convened on April 28, 2025, to discuss proposed legislative changes aimed at improving land use for housing development in Oregon. The meeting focused on two specific amendments intended to streamline the urbanization process and address the ongoing housing shortage.

The first item on the agenda addressed the differentiation between land that is difficult to urbanize and land that is more cost-effective for development. The committee emphasized the importance of prioritizing non-resource land—areas not designated for farming or forestry—for housing projects. The proposed bill seeks to clarify that lower priority may be given to exception areas or non-resource lands that are already subdivided or developed. This change would allow cities to prioritize undeveloped parcels, which are easier and cheaper to service with infrastructure, thereby facilitating housing development.

The second significant change discussed involves the criteria for evaluating land based on the cost of providing necessary infrastructure. Currently, the existing standards do not account for the relative costs associated with different types of land. The proposed amendment would enable cities to consider the expense of developing land with challenging terrain, such as rocky areas or those with natural obstacles. This adjustment aims to ensure that cities can focus on more feasible land options, ultimately addressing the high costs that contribute to the housing crisis.

Throughout the meeting, committee members expressed the need for clearer guidelines that align statutory language with practical implementation. The proposed bill is designed to enhance the existing rulemaking process without necessitating major statutory changes. The committee's goal is to balance housing needs with conservation efforts while providing cities with the tools to make informed decisions about land use.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions highlighted a proactive approach to addressing Oregon's housing challenges by refining land use policies. The proposed changes aim to create a more efficient framework for urban development, ultimately supporting the state's efforts to increase housing availability. Further deliberations and potential votes on the bill are expected in upcoming sessions.