SB 1514
Repeals the statute enacted by House Bill 3115 (2021) that established objective reasonableness as a statewide standard, for city and county laws regulating the use of public property with respect to persons experiencing homelessness, as the basis for a cause of action for injunctive and declaratory relief to challenge such laws and as an affirmative defense in the prosecution of violations of such laws.
Jurisdiction
Oregon
Session
2026 Regular Session
At the request of
(at the request of Senate Interim Committee on Commerce and General Government)
Committee
Commerce and General Government
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
26%
Oppose
74%
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
Senate Bill 1514 aims to remove a law established in 2021 that set a statewide standard for how cities and counties can regulate the use of public property when interacting with people experiencing homelessness. Specifically, it repeals the provisions of House Bill 3115 that allowed individuals to challenge such regulations in court and for local governments to use ‘objective reasonableness’ as a defense. This action effectively removes a legal framework previously in place regarding these regulations.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Senate Interim Committee on Commerce and General Government
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of Senate Bill 1514 argue that it provides structure, accountability, community support, and access to services, enabling successful transitions out of homelessness. They contend that HB 3115 restricts local governments' ability to address homelessness effectively, creating confusion and uncertainty, and threaten costly litigation. In contrast, repealing HB 3115 would allow local governments to adopt public camping ordinances reflecting community standards, restore local authority, and prioritize local resources and support services, particularly in rural areas where social service infrastructure is often lacking. By promoting local control and flexibility, supporters believe that SB 1514 can effectively address the complex issues surrounding homelessness, ensuring compassion and effective solutions tailored to each community's unique needs.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
Opponents of SB 1514 express concerns that repealing the statewide objective reasonableness standard governing public property regulations for people experiencing homelessness would exacerbate the crisis, increase vulnerability, and undermine efforts to address homelessness. They argue that this standard is crucial for ensuring fair and balanced restrictions that prioritize shelter and housing alternatives over enforcement. Many the need for a humane approach, citing the struggles of unsheltered residents who face traumatic encampment sweeps, displacement, and lack of affordable housing. Opponents also highlight the potential negative consequences of legislation that only addresses symptoms without addressing underlying causes, such as exorbitant rent increases and systemic issues contributing to homelessness. They advocate for evidence-based solutions, prioritizing services over enforcement, and call for a comprehensive approach that includes safe and affordable housing.
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