HB 4123
Limits the circumstances under which a landlord may disclose confidential information.
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
92%
Oppose
8%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill restricts the types of private information landlords in Oregon can share. It specifically defines ‘confidential information’ as details like birthdates, Social Security numbers, and financial records. Landlords can only disclose this information with the tenant’s consent, a court order, or in limited circumstances such as background checks or responding to legal actions. Individuals whose confidential information is improperly disclosed can seek financial compensation.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
James Manning Jr.
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of House Bill 4123 emphasize the importance of protecting tenants' basic information privacy, particularly for vulnerable populations such as disabled individuals, immigrants, and survivors of domestic violence. They argue that confidentiality protections are necessary to prevent harm from disclosure, including theft, fraud, and re-traumatization. The bill aims to safeguard personal data for consumer safety and dignity, ensuring that renters have the same privacy protections as any other person. Supporters believe that clear confidentiality standards will promote trust, maintain safe and stable housing, and protect individuals from exploitation, coercion, and discrimination.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
The opposition to HB 4123 argues that the bill infringes on property owners' rights, restricting their ability to communicate with potential tenants and other property owners, which is a necessary aspect of renting out properties. They claim that this restriction would lead to a decrease in available housing options in Oregon by limiting communication between property owners. Furthermore, opponents argue that the bill imposes unnecessary restrictions on landlords, making it harder for them to screen applicants and increasing costs. Some testifiers also believe that the proposed law infringes on their freedom of speech, citing the Bill of Rights as protection against such infringement. Additionally, opposition to HB 4123 is rooted in concerns about its potential to strengthen Oregon's sanctuary status, which is seen as a threat to federal authority and could lead to secession or civil war among states that refuse to comply with federal laws.
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