HB 3378
Requires residential landlords to offer a method of accessing the dwelling unit other than software on tenant-owned phones or other electronic devices for the dwelling to be considered habitable.
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
79%
Oppose
21%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires landlords in Oregon to provide tenants with a way to access their rental dwelling unit other than relying solely on software accessed through tenant-owned phones or other electronic devices. The dwelling must be considered habitable if a tenant has a reasonable method of access. Landlords must offer at least one alternative access method, such as a physical key or access code, in addition to any software-based access. This legislation aims to ensure tenants have reliable access to their homes.
Key provisions
- Landlords must offer tenants a method of accessing the dwelling unit besides software on tenant-owned devices.
- A dwelling unit is considered habitable only if tenants have a reasonable access method.
- Landlords must provide at least one alternative access method (e.g., key, access code) alongside any software-based access.
- The law amends ORS 90.320 to define ‘habitable’ and include requirements for access.
- ORS 458.395 is amended to require the Housing and Community Services Department to provide information on cooling programs.
Who is affected
- Residential Landlords
- Tenants
- Housing Providers
Notable changes
- Previously, landlords could rely solely on software accessed through tenant-owned devices to provide access.
- This bill establishes a requirement for at least one alternative access method (physical key, access code, etc.).
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of the proposed legislation believe that it will improve access to affordable housing for low-income families by providing additional funding for community development projects. They argue that requiring landlords to offer non-smartphone options for residents to access their homes is necessary for ensuring stable and safe housing for all Oregonians, particularly vulnerable populations such as older adults, people with disabilities, and those with financial hardships. By providing alternative means of access, the legislation aims to alleviate unnecessary costs and burdens on these groups, who may not have smartphones or be able to afford new technology. This approach prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, allowing tenants to access their homes without difficulty, regardless of technological proficiency or device ownership.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
Opponents of the bill argue that it attempts to address a nonexistent issue, imposing unnecessary requirements on housing providers that could compromise modern security technology and increase costs. They also express concerns about the potential for future changes to the law, which could disproportionately affect landlords and small businesses in Oregon, potentially stifling innovation and economic growth. Furthermore, some testifiers contend that existing regulations already safeguard tenants' access to their homes, rendering the proposed mandates redundant and unwarranted.