Following the general election of Nov. 2020 and a number of legislative sessions, Oregon is starting off the new year with new laws. Here’s some of what the state’s changing in 2021.
Extension for Eviction Moratorium
Shortly before the new year, lawmakers decided to extend Oregon’s eviction moratorium through the end of June 2021. They also issued $200 million in rental assistance for those struggling through the pandemic.
To be protected from an eviction due to non-payment of rent through June, tenants can fill out a declaration, which also allows the landlord to access the Landlord Compensation Fund.
Tax Increase on Cigarettes and Tobacco
On January 1, a tax increase on smoking products went into effect. This new law includes an increase on cigarettes, tobacco, cigars, and vapes. Revenue from the tax hike will fund health coverage for low-income families. This law was passed by voters.
Cigarettes and little cigars will have a $2 increase for a pack of 20 and a $2.50 increase for a pack of 25. Vapes and e-cigarettes will be taxed at 65% of the wholesale price. The tax on cigars will increase from 50 cents to $1.
Proof of Legal Presence
Also, on January 1, Oregon stopped the requirement of proof of legal presence in the United States to obtain a driver’s license or state ID. This bill was passed by lawmakers in 2019. People will still need to prove their name, identity, and residency in Oregon, but will not have to prove their legal presence in the U.S. to acquire official identification.
Facial Recognition Technology
As of January 1, facial recognition technology is banned from being used by private entities in public spaces in Portland. This law was passed by lawmakers in Sept. 2020; In comments made in Sep. 2020, Mayor Ted Wheeler and Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty both pushed for its passing, noting that such technology adversely harms people of color.
Public spaces have been defined by the Portland City Council as restaurants that serve food or drinks, retailers, service establishments, public recreation, exercise, and entertainment spaces. Private clubs, religious organizations, and private residences are not considered public spaces.
Drug Possession Decriminalization
A law decriminalizing low-level drug possession in Oregon will be taking effect on February 1. This was passed by voters, making Oregon the first state in the U.S. to decriminalize low-level amounts of hard drugs.
This decriminalization law, which is different from legalization, reclassifies personal drug possession to a Class E violation. Those who are caught with personal use amounts of drugs may be fined a maximum of $100 or have the fine waived after undergoing a health assessment, in which they may be directed to a form of treatment or recovery. Such services will be largely funded by marijuana tax revenue.
Annual Minimum Wage Increase
As it has every year since 2016, minimum wage in Oregon will rise again on July 1 of 2021. Standard minimum wage will increase from $12 an hour to $12.75; Portland metro will increase from $13.25 to $14; and nonurban counties will increase from $11.50 to $12.
Another minimum wage increase will occur in 2022.
By Cara Nixon
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