Increase the Document Fee to support affordable housing

Good things come in the form of very strange packages sometimes. 

​The legislature has a bill, HB 4007, that will raise the document recording fee from $20 to $60. Wow, that sounds eye-crossingly boring doesn't it! However, it will raise a fair amount of money, 60 million dollars over two years! The money will go to finance affordable housing. It will create housing opportunity across Oregon - providing thousands more with the stability of a home.
HB 4007 also creates the First Time Home Buyer Savings Account, which will provide a small tax subtraction for first time home buyers with moderate incomes who are saving for a home.
This is a good little bill that needs support. The lack of affordable housing in this state goes against our Unitarian Universalist values. When people cannot afford decent housing their worth and dignity is forfeited to those who can afford it. A just society takes care of people and provides them with opportunities to live in dignity.
This week's Action of the Week is a phone call or email in support of this legislation. Click here to connect to your legislators and ask for their vote.
Last week HB 4007 moved out of the House Revenue Committee. The bill now is in the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. Its next step is the House and Senate floor for a full vote. Partner organization, the Oregon Housing Alliance, says now is the time to let legislators know that this a bill that has support. Let's get this done!
In Love and Faith,
Rev. Katie Larsell