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Bill

SB 599

Relating to immigration status discrimination in real estate transactions; and declaring an emergency.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Anthony Broadman and 21 co-sponsors

Oregon law bans immigration-status discrimination in real estate transactions, immediately protecting renters and buyers regardless of citizenship documentation.

Effective date, May 28, 2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 599

Legislative bill overview

SB 599 prohibits discrimination based on immigration status in real estate transactions, including rental housing, property sales, and financing decisions. The bill applies to landlords, real estate agents, lenders, and other participants in Oregon's housing market, with an emergency clause that made it effective immediately upon the governor's signature on May 28, 2025.

Why is this important

Housing discrimination based on immigration status can create barriers to homeownership and rental access for undocumented immigrants and visa holders, potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of Oregonians. This law expands fair housing protections beyond federal safeguards and aligns Oregon with states seeking to create more inclusive housing markets regardless of citizenship documentation.

Potential points of contention

  • Verification conflicts: Lenders and landlords may face tension between complying with this law and federal requirements (like know-your-customer rules) that sometimes depend on immigration documentation
  • Implementation burden: Housing market participants may struggle to understand what constitutes discrimination versus legitimate verification needs, potentially leading to confusion or litigation
  • Economic concerns: Some property owners and lenders argue the restrictions could increase their liability risks or administrative costs in verifying eligibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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