Oregon Senate Bill 814 expands rental assistance for youth exiting juvenile facilities

In a recent meeting of the Oregon House Committee on Housing and Homelessness, lawmakers discussed Senate Bill 814, which aims to expand eligibility for the long-term rental assistance program managed by the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) Department. This bill specifically targets young individuals aged 25 and under who are transitioning from childcare centers or correctional facilities, addressing a critical gap in housing support for vulnerable youth.

Casey Houlihan, a representative from OHCS, provided an overview of the Rental Assistance for Youth (RAY) program, which was established as a pilot initiative to offer stable housing for homeless or justice-involved youth. The program, which began in 2022 with a one-time funding of $2.3 million, is currently limited to three regions in Oregon and is administered by local agencies. However, it faces challenges in connecting with its target population, leading to delays in fund distribution and a lack of ongoing financial support once initial funds are exhausted.

The proposed Senate Bill 814 seeks to clarify eligibility criteria for the RAY program, allowing youth exiting the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) to qualify for rental assistance without first having to experience homelessness. This change is intended to provide a smoother transition for these young individuals, who often face significant barriers, including criminal records and limited family support. Deborah Martin from the OYA emphasized the importance of this bill in preventing recidivism and ensuring that youth have access to stable housing as they navigate their independence.

Support for the bill was echoed by Jonathan Clay from Multifamily Northwest, who highlighted the necessity of stable housing for young Oregonians to succeed in education and employment. The committee's discussions underscored the urgency of addressing housing instability among youth, particularly those with justice involvement, as a means to foster long-term success and reduce the risk of returning to criminal environments.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of Senate Bill 814 could significantly impact the lives of many young individuals in Oregon, providing them with essential support during a critical transition period. The bill's passage would mark a step toward a more inclusive approach to housing assistance, ensuring that no young person is left without a safe place to call home.