Senate approves bill letting tenants end fixed‑term leases early with 30‑day notice

The Oregon Senate passed House Bill 21‑34 on May 12, allowing tenants bound by fixed‑term rental agreements to terminate those agreements early by giving 30 days’ written notice and preventing landlords from charging rent or fees after the tenant’s designated termination date.

Senator Anderson, speaking for the bill, said the measure fills a gap in existing rental law that can leave tenants fiscally responsible for months after a landlord gives the required 90‑day notice that a fixed‑term tenancy will not continue. “This measure gives renters an option by allowing them to terminate their rental agreement early, provided they give 30 day written notice, allowing tenants the flexibility to plan their next steps without being fiscally burdened,” Anderson said.

The floor exchange also recorded potential conflicts of interest: Senator Gerard and Senator Robinson stated on the record that they own rental properties, which was entered into the record as potential conflicts. The sponsor noted the bill came to the Senate Housing and Development Committee on a unanimous 5‑0 vote.

Under the bill’s terms discussed on the floor, the early‑termination right applies only to fixed‑term agreements. The bill prohibits landlords from charging fees or rent after the tenant’s stated termination date and requires a 30‑day written notice by the tenant; it does not alter landlords’ other rights under existing law.

Senators voted to pass the bill; floor records show the measure received a constitutional majority and was declared passed. The Senate record notes the bill’s passage without further floor amendments.