Oregon Senate Committee discusses Senate Bill 829 to provide financial relief for affordable housing and shelter providers facing insurance rate hikes

Oregon – Members of the Senate Committee on Housing and Development convened to hear testimony for Senate Bill 829, introduced by Governor Tina Kotek. The bill seeks to provide financial assistance to affordable housing and shelter providers who are at risk of closing their operations due to significant increases in insurance premiums. The proposed legislation includes a total investment of $5 million to support these crucial services.

Governor Kotek emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating, “Too many Oregonians are still sleeping outside. We cannot afford to take our foot off the pedal or lose a single bed or housing unit we have fought for. The providers who are making a difference on the ground need our continued focus on solving the crisis on our streets. Senate Bill 829 follows through on that promise and lays the groundwork for long-term solutions.”

Affordable housing providers and shelters are facing a volatile market with significant insurance rate increases that threaten their ability to operate. In many cases, these steep premium hikes are unsustainable, leading providers to reduce or cut essential services that serve vulnerable Oregonians. Senate Bill 829 seeks to provide immediate relief while organizations work to find more affordable insurance options.

In addition to offering immediate financial support, Senate Bill 829 takes a proactive approach by including a study to explore long-term solutions for the insurance challenges faced by housing providers. The bill also creates an export list for surplus lines carriers, aiming to accelerate the process for providers to obtain insurance coverage and promote a more competitive insurance market.

This legislation is part of Governor Kotek’s broader strategy to address homelessness and affordable housing in Oregon. In conjunction with her proposed House Bill 3644, which focuses on permanent shelter, and the Governor’s recommended $933 million investment for shelter, rehousing, and prevention efforts, Senate Bill 829 reflects the Governor’s commitment to ensuring that every Oregonian has access to a safe, affordable place to call home.