OSTA Review 2026
“What good is changing the laws if they aren’t enforced. Running into roadblocks trying to get help as a community whose new landowner is illegally raising rent on lease renewal…The law changed and nothing changed. Without a way to enforce it, our housing security is in a very vulnerable position.” -Karen Freeman
Enforcement has been a long-standing issue of contention with lawmakers due to the cost and administrative burden.
However, it is critical that we begin to steadily push this idea forward, until it cannot be ignored.
Otherwise, why are they wasting legislative time, effort, consideration and costs, to pass laws in the first place? It should feel like a slap in the face to legislators, for landlords to turn around and completely ignore the well-considered decisions passed by our elected officials.
We have to start pushing this idea forward now. It will take time to build steam. We have to come together, which is why being an OSTA member matters. We need to be visible. We need to be impossible to overlook.
How can we get this matter top of mind to everyone at the capitol?
-
OSTA will begin collecting data on landlord violations in an upcoming survey.
-
Send your story, by email to your elected officials, and to OSTA.
-
Send your concerns to the media.
-
Call your legislators. Meet with them in-person to discuss the need for enforcement.
-
Invite them to speak at your park and corner them on the issue. Listen to their feedback on what obstacles they see.
-
Show up in Salem during committee meetings.
-
Write to other local advocacy groups to express the need for enforcement.
This is no small matter. It will take a great deal of effort and constant contact with lawmakers to see this to fruition. It CAN be done. OSTA 100% supports the need for enforcement as a top-priority.
Remember, OSTA is nothing without it’s members. OSTA is strong because our members pull together in numbers. We need all of you.
Please join as a member today, if you have not already. Your membership dues make it possible for us to advocate for you and with you.
Our organization is 100% volunteer-run- we have no employees or paid staff, so you can be sure every penny you invest into OSTA and your membership goes right back into advocating for your rights, for better laws and in the future the enforcement we so desperately need to enact.
Thank you all for your support and active participation.