Oregon enters 2026 with significant new legislation, including crucial updates to Oregon Laws 2026. These laws strengthen consumer rights, increase public safety measures, and enhance housing protections. Many of these changes took effect on January 1, 2026, following bills passed by Oregon lawmakers during the 2025 session. These new rules aim to protect residents statewide and will be a key part of understanding Oregon Laws 2026. Understanding these important Oregon 2026 laws is essential for all residents.
Bolstering Consumer Rights and Transparency Under Oregon Laws 2026
Several new Oregon laws focus on consumer fairness, a key aspect of Oregon consumer rights. Online shoppers gain new protections under Oregon Laws 2026. Merchants must now display all mandatory fees upfront for goods and services sold online. This is a significant aspect of Oregon Laws 2026. Hidden charges like “convenience fees” are prohibited without clear notice. Taxes and shipping costs can still be listed separately, but they must be disclosed before purchase. This aims to prevent surprise costs for consumers, contributing to greater Oregon consumer fairness.
Ticket sales face stricter rules. The Fan Fairness and Transparency Act targets scalpers, banning the use of bots that bypass limits on ticket purchases. Reselling tickets bought with bots is also illegal. Misleading websites resembling official sellers are prohibited. This ensures fairer access for event-goers, a key feature of Oregon Laws 2026.
Utility companies face increased accountability. Senate Bill 688 introduces performance-based regulation. Investor-owned power companies must meet specific targets, including lowering emissions and costs. They also aim to prevent power shutoffs for low-income customers. Companies cannot raise rates without meeting these metrics. This balances utility profits with public service, a vital component of new Oregon legislation.
Strengthening Public Safety and Criminal Justice with Oregon Laws 2026
Oregon is cracking down on AI-generated abuse, enhancing Oregon public safety. A new law criminalizes AI-generated intimate images, expanding laws against sharing non-consensual images, including deepfakes or manipulated photos. Creating or distributing such images can lead to serious charges. First offenses may be a misdemeanor, while repeat violations could become a felony. This law targets harassment and humiliation, providing legal recourse for victims and enhancing Oregon public safety through these updated Oregon Laws 2026.
Workplace safety sees new enforcement. Senate Bill 170 targets repeat offenders. Those who assault others in the workplace face tougher penalties. This deters violence against employees and offers greater protection for workers.
Domestic violence victims receive more support. “Savanna’s Law” creates a registry for persistent offenders. A prior domestic violence conviction combined with a new offense mandates registration. Senate Bill 710 requires judges to receive training on abuse dynamics and sensitivity. This ensures more informed decisions in complex cases, reflecting the focus of Oregon criminal justice reforms within Oregon Laws 2026.
Furthermore, new legislation addresses sexual assault statutes. House Bill 3582A eliminates civil deadlines for lawsuits. Survivors of child sex abuse or sexual assault can now sue without time limits. This removes barriers to justice for healing survivors and closes loopholes that shielded institutions enabling abuse. These are important aspects of the new Oregon legislation.
Enhancing Housing Stability and Tenant Rights Under Oregon Laws 2026
Prospective tenants gain significant protections under Oregon Laws 2026. House Bill 3521 strengthens rules for holding deposits, which are paid before signing a lease. Landlords must return these deposits if the tenant discovers serious habitability issues or if the landlord breaches the agreement. Landlords must refund deposits within five business days. Failure to comply may result in penalties. These rules apply to deposits received from January 1, 2026, marking a significant step in Oregon housing reform. These new rules are a vital part of Oregon Laws 2026.
Landlords using electronic entry systems face new requirements. They must offer alternatives not solely reliant on mobile phones. Options like key cards or physical keys are mandated, providing crucial Oregon tenant rights protections within the scope of Oregon Laws 2026.
Key Changes Impacting Daily Life in Oregon
Oregon has raised its marriage age. Senate Bill 548 sets the minimum marriage age at 18 with no exceptions for minors. This change protects youth from exploitation and closes a previous loophole for underage marriage, a notable point in Oregon Laws 2026.
Telemarketing regulations are updated. House Bill 3865 expands rules to include texting. Solicitations are now banned after 8 p.m., previously 9 p.m. Companies can only call three times per day, a consumer protection measure introduced by the new Oregon legislation. Understanding these is part of knowing Oregon transparency laws.
Construction workers have stronger wage protections. Senate Bill 426 allows workers to sue owners and contractors directly, even when hired through subcontractors. This aims to prevent wage theft and ensure fair pay.
Medical debt no longer impacts credit reports. Senate Bill 605 prevents medical bills from appearing on credit reports, helping families avoid long-term financial harm. This exemplifies the consumer focus within Oregon Laws 2026.
Unemployment benefits now extend to striking workers. Senate Bill 916 allows workers to collect benefits for up to 10 weeks. Oregon is the first state to offer this to both public and private sector employees, a significant development in labor policy.
Conclusion on Oregon Laws 2026
These new Oregon Laws 2026 reflect a commitment to fairness and safety. They address consumer needs, housing issues, and public well-being. Many laws passed in 2025 are now active, aiming to protect families and individuals across the state. These changes represent Oregon’s ongoing effort to adapt to evolving needs and demonstrate a focus on transparency and accountability. The news from Oregon signals a proactive legislative approach for 2026, with Oregon Laws 2026 set to significantly impact residents. Staying informed about Oregon Laws 2026 ensures compliance and awareness.
