The Oregon Senate Committee on Housing and Development convened on March 17, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 6, which aims to reform the building permit process. The meeting highlighted significant concerns from local government representatives, particularly regarding the bill's potential impact on building inspections and permit approvals.

Alexandra Ring, representing the League of Oregon Cities, voiced strong opposition to the current draft of Senate Bill 6. She emphasized that local governments are bound by state building codes and cannot deviate from them. Ring pointed out that if the state wishes to expedite the permit process, it should consider reducing the number of materials required for review. She also raised concerns about liability, stating that counties need assurance they won't be held responsible for issues arising from the bill's implementation.

The committee members acknowledged the challenges faced by local governments, including under-resourced staff and the need for more complete permit applications. Ring noted that while some applications are processed quickly, many are incomplete, leading to delays. She warned that the proposed changes could increase permit costs, raise the number of denials, and introduce legal risks for cities.

Senator Anderson, a key advocate for the bill, recognized the need for a standardized process to address the varying timelines for permit approvals across different cities. He stressed the urgency of reform, stating that the current system is inadequate and that action is necessary to alleviate the housing crisis.

The committee concluded the public hearing on Senate Bill 6 without a final decision, indicating that further amendments and discussions are expected. The anticipated Dash 1 amendment, which aims to address some of the concerns raised, has not yet been reviewed by the committee. As the legislative process continues, stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments to ensure that the final bill effectively balances the need for efficient permitting with the safety and accountability of building practices.