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t the Oregon State Bar Real Estate and Land Use Section Annual Conference in Bend, I presented the latest legislative update, a product of the 17‑member Legislative Subcommittee that tracked each bill’s passage and impact.
Key statutes:
- HB 3746 shortens the statute of repose for construction‑defect claims from 10 to 7 years, with a one‑year discovery window in limited cases. It also requires condo boards to conduct moisture‑intrusion inspections at years two and six and to notify owners of potential defect suits. The change aims to reduce developer liability while protecting owners’ rights.
- SB 599 prohibits landlords from inquiring about a tenant’s immigration status, except where federal programs require it. Landlords must accept broader ID and may not threaten status disclosure as retaliation.
- SB 426 expands joint and several liability for owners hiring contractors, making them responsible for certain unpaid subcontractor wages, with exceptions for small projects.
- HB 3054 caps annual rent increases at 6 % in manufactured‑home parks with 31 + units, allowing up to 12 % for approved infrastructure projects.
- SB 83 repeals the statewide Wildfire Hazard Map, revises definitions, and shifts defensible‑space and fire‑hardening codes to local governments.
These bills balance development incentives, tenant protections, and worker fairness amid a housing shortage and rising costs.
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