Oregon House Bill 3522 enables quicker removal of squatters from properties

In a recent meeting of the Oregon House Committee on Housing and Homelessness, lawmakers discussed House Bill 3522, a proposed legislation aimed at addressing the challenges property owners face with squatters. The bill, introduced by Representative Anessa Hartman, seeks to streamline the eviction process for property owners by allowing them to reclaim their premises from squatters with just a 24-hour written notice to vacate.

Hartman highlighted a troubling case that prompted the bill's introduction, where a new homeowner in Gladstone found themselves unable to evict squatters who had taken residence in their property after a purchase at auction. The situation escalated to a lengthy and costly ejectment lawsuit, as current laws require proof of forced entry or an established landlord-tenant relationship for standard eviction processes. This has left property owners vulnerable, as squatters can exploit legal loopholes to delay removal.

The proposed legislation aims to amend Oregon's housing laws by enabling property owners to utilize the forcible entry and detainer (FED) process for eviction, even in the absence of evidence of forced entry or a formal rental agreement. Hartman emphasized that the bill does not target individuals facing housing insecurity but rather seeks to prevent unauthorized occupants from manipulating the legal system.

Support for the bill was echoed by other committee members, including Representative Boomer Wright, who shared a personal account of a similar situation involving squatters. Legal experts and representatives from housing associations also voiced their support, noting that the bill would provide a necessary legal framework for property owners to reclaim their properties efficiently.

The committee's discussions underscored the broader implications of the housing crisis in Oregon, where the presence of squatters can deter investment in rental properties and exacerbate the housing supply shortage. By reinforcing property rights and improving access to stable housing, House Bill 3522 aims to restore confidence in Oregon's rental market.

As the committee moves forward, the bill's potential impact on both property owners and the housing landscape in Oregon remains a critical focus. The next steps will involve further deliberations and potential amendments to ensure the legislation effectively addresses the concerns raised during the meeting.