OR HB3970

Expands eligibility for homeless housing services under ORS 458.650 to include pregnant individuals and children from birth through kindergarten age, in addition to the existing coverage for school-aged children in grades K-12

Previously, homeless assistance services were limited to school-aged children enrolled in kindergarten through grade 12; the amendment extends coverage to younger children and pregnant individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness

The Housing and Community Services Department administers the Emergency Housing Account, which provides emergency shelters, transitional housing, supportive housing services, and emergency payment assistance for home payments, rents, or utilities

25% of account funds are dedicated to emergency housing assistance for homeless veterans or veterans at risk of becoming homeless

Declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately upon passage (passed House June 23, 2025; passed Senate June 26, 2025)