Building pathways to homeownership: Habitat for Humanity of Oregon’s 2026 legislative priorities
At Habitat for Humanity of Oregon, we work to strengthen the systems, resources, and know-how needed to expand access to stable and affordable homeownership statewide. Our policy priorities focus on increasing the supply of homes for low- and moderate-income homebuyers, expanding access to homeownership for people of all backgrounds, and keeping homes affordable and livable over the long term to support homeowner resilience and the opportunity to build generational wealth. Homeownership helps families and individuals to put down roots, supports better outcomes for children, and provides predictable housing costs that build long-term economic stability
In the 2026 legislative session, Habitat for Humanity of Oregon is focused on two priorities that respond to today’s housing challenges by expanding access to homeownership and increasing the supply of affordable homes.
Supporting first-time and first-generation homebuyers through down payment assistance
With record prices, high interest rates, and limited access to support, many Oregonians working toward their first home remain locked out of the market — making down payment assistance one of the most effective tools for expanding access to homeownership. House Bill 4136 secures dedicated funding for down payment assistance, helping approximately 250 Oregon households each year achieve first-time homeownership.
Build new homes for entry-level homeownership
Oregon also needs to build more homes that working families can afford to buy. The Local Innovation and Fast Track (LIFT) Homeownership Program is a proven tool for increasing housing supply through the construction of permanently affordable, entry-level homes across the state. Builders are ready to break ground on hundreds of affordable homes in communities large and small — creating construction jobs, growing the local tax base, and immediately opening the door to homeownership for purchase-ready families who earn up to 80 percent of the area median income. Using a land trust model, these homes will remain permanently affordable for future generations.
A shared agenda for housing stability
As lawmakers convene in Salem for the 2026 short legislative session, they face a packed agenda that includes balancing the state budget, addressing rising costs, and responding to multiple competing priorities across transportation, economic stability, and public services. Even amid these pressures, housing affordability and stability remain central concerns — reflecting the ongoing challenges facing families and communities across Oregon.
In addition to advancing our own legislative priorities, Habitat for Humanity of Oregon will support the Oregon Housing Alliance’s shared agenda to strengthen housing stability statewide. These priorities include:
- Preserve existing affordable housing: HB 4036
- Restore funding for eviction prevention and emergency rent assistance
- Protect tenant privacy: HB 4123
- Defend state revenue; protect housing and homelessness programs
Building toward a more stable housing future
Habitat for Humanity of Oregon’s 2026 legislative priorities reflect what Oregon families and individuals need now: meaningful support to become homeowners and a reliable pipeline of homes they can afford to buy. By investing in down payment assistance and proven homeownership programs like LIFT, Oregon can strengthen communities and build a more stable and equitable housing future.
Read more about the session from OPB: Oregon’s 2026 legislative session: What you need to know