Jody Weiser advocates for Oregon senior property tax deferral program reforms

Oregon's Senate Committee on Finance and Revenue convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss critical updates to the state's property tax deferral program, which aims to assist seniors and disabled homeowners. Jody Weiser from Tax Fairness Oregon highlighted that despite the program's benefits, participation has plummeted to just 3,662 out of an estimated 600,000 to 700,000 eligible seniors. This decline is largely attributed to a lack of awareness about the program.

The deferral program allows eligible homeowners to defer property taxes, providing immediate financial relief while counties receive necessary operating funds. However, the current structure includes a high interest rate of 6%, the highest among comparable states, which raises concerns about its accessibility and fairness. Weiser proposed that the program should shift from a focus on years of homeownership to equity-based criteria, aligning with practices in other states that have successfully implemented similar programs.

House Bill 3712A aims to broaden eligibility for the deferral program, but Weiser urged for a more comprehensive study by the Legislative Revenue Office (LRO) to explore potential reforms. She emphasized the need for better communication strategies to ensure that both legislators and the public are informed about the program's existence and benefits. A proposed allocation of $150,000 to enhance outreach efforts was also discussed, underscoring the importance of raising awareness among seniors who may be unaware of their options for property tax relief.

The committee acknowledged the need for further examination of the program's structure and its implications for Oregon's senior population. As the meeting concluded, members expressed a commitment to addressing these issues in future sessions, with additional bills scheduled for discussion that may further impact property tax policies in the state. The ongoing dialogue reflects a growing recognition of the challenges faced by seniors in managing property taxes and the importance of ensuring equitable access to financial relief programs.