Oregon Legislative Session 2025: Key Updates Impacting Multifamily Stakeholders With Critical Deadline Friday 5/9
As the Oregon legislative session for 2025 unfolds, several bills are poised to significantly impact multifamily property owners, investors, developers, managers, and vendors.
Senate Bill 426: Construction Wage Accountability is A New Challenge for Multifamily Developers
SB 426 aims to address wage theft in the construction industry by holding property owners and general contractors jointly liable for unpaid subcontractor wages. While the intent is to protect workers, critics argue it could deter hiring emerging minority subcontractors due to increased financial risks. Accordingly, a public hearing is scheduled for May 7th at 3 PM in the House Committee on Labor and Workplace Standards.
Legislative Wins and Ongoing Battles
The multifamily sector has seen successes in halting proposals in the Oregon 2025 legislative assembly that would have imposed burdensome regulations. They include: mandatory inclusionary zoning, mandatory cooling requirements, changes to rent cap exemptions, and eviction bans. However, debates continue on bills mandating a high number of electric vehicle charging stations in new construction. Other bills will increase required ADA-compliant units, which could affect development costs and feasibility.
Multifamily NW is advocating to secure $1.5 million in funding for the Rent Well program, which remains a top priority to support renters and housing stability.
Looking ahead, the next major deadline is Friday, May 9th. All bills must have a work session scheduled by that date, or they will be considered dead for the session. We are working hard to influence outcomes ahead of this deadline and will keep you updated as things continue to unfold.
Portland’s Algorithmic Rent Pricing Ban
Portland City Council has postponed an ordinance to ban rent-setting algorithms like those provided by RealPage. They and others have been accused of enabling landlords to artificially inflate rents. Moreover, the proposal was sent back to the City’s Homelessness and Housing Committee for further review pending litigation against Berkley, California for enacting a similar ordinance.
Energy Reporting Pilot Program
The Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) wants 3 to 5 multifamily buildings to participate in a pilot program for energy reporting. Its aim is to assess the complexities and staff requirements for compliance.
Portland Ambassador Program
Multifamily NW is starting a Portland Ambassador Program, encouraging members to engage with city councilors to advocate for balanced policies. Indeed, if you’re a Multifamily NW member and would like to make a proactive difference for owners, managers, and investors, you can help! Email Zach Lindahl to volunteer. (Zach@multifamilynw.org).
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