Oregon First State to Implement Statewide Rent Control

Lauren Dake reports that the Oregon legislature yesterday approved an unprecedented expansion of rent control in the state, along with other tenant protections.

"Democrats, who control both chambers of the Legislature and the executive branch, made it clear the bill was a priority as it moved at breakneck speed through both chambers. It takes effect as soon as the governor signs the bill," according to Dake.

As for the details of the rent cap approved by the legislation, Dake explains: "The bill prohibits landlords across the state from raising rents more than 7 percent per year, plus the annual change in the consumer price index. It carves out an exemption for rental properties that are less than 15 years old."

And for the other protections: "The measure would also prevent a landlord’s ability to evict tenants without a reason after they have lived in the building for a year. As long as landlords cite a reason — such as violating the lease agreement or not paying rent — they could still remove tenants from their properties."

More protections and soundbites from the political debate surrounding the bill are included in the source article.