Public Hearing for "Right to Rest Act"

HB 3501 the "Right to Rest” bill will be heard on public hearing on May 4^th at 8 a.m.

Revitalize Portland Coalition is opposed to this bill and you can read our testimony in opposition to HB 3501.  This bill seeks to decriminalize camping in public places and establishes a series of "rights" for individuals in any public space including free use, resting, occupying a vehicle, camping, etc.   It also creates legal liability for cities and counties with the possibility of civil penalties and compensatory damages.  The bill would prohibit “harassment” which is defined in part as “seriously alarming.” It would also allow individuals to rest in public spaces so long as they do not “obstruct” pedestrians or vehicles.

For the public hearing on HB 3501, the public can participate in two ways:

1. Submit written testimony HERE to be included in the public record.   

2. Register to testify HERE if you want to address the legislature on this matter.

The links above will take you to the Oregon State Legislature's website where you can also find the bill's language and status.  

RPC opposes HB 3501 and believes adding the proposed language to the statutes is a mistake. Specifically,

• RPC is concerned that this bill will overly burden our cities and counties who are already struggling. 
• The proposed language is vague and will create many more problems than it might solve.  It is also not needed.  
• There is no need for these special protections from criminal prosecution as law enforcement and district attorneys are already exercising discretion in not arresting and prosecuting illegal campers. 
• The ambiguities in the bill are an invitation to ongoing lawsuits
• This legislature has already passed 2 pieces of legislation  to ensure that cities and counties comply with a series of recent federal court rulings.