Measure 118, a plan to offer direct rebates to address the state’s escalating housing crisis, may soon bring a fresh $1,600 stimulus check to Oregonians.
The likelihood of the legislation becoming law is growing, even though it won’t be put to a vote until the November 2025 presidential election.
Measure 118, which has the support of multiple advocacy organizations, may have a big effect on renters who are finding it difficult to keep up with the rising cost of living.
Here’s a look at the significance of this stimulus check, the beneficiaries, and potential roadblocks to its passage.
Reasons for Needing Relief
If approved, Measure 118 would give $1,600 to each and every Oregonian, attempting to alleviate financial strain in a state where living expenses have risen sharply.
The housing issue has gotten out of control, with rents rising steadily and inflation making it more difficult to pay for necessities.
The housing situation in Oregon has gotten worse over the last ten years, and now almost half of renters pay more than thirty percent of their income on rent.
Among these tenants, over half say they have little money left over after paying their rent for basic necessities like food and medication. For tenants who are barely making ends meet, the $1,600 stimulus check could be a lifesaver in this situation.
Important Figures:
- Renters paying 30% or more of their income on rent: Almost 50%
- More than 50% of renters struggle with necessities after rent.
Eligibility Criteria
- Residency: You have to have spent at least 200 days in Oregon.
- Payment is also available to dependents.
The wide qualifying conditions of Measure 118 are one of its alluring features. The plan states that the payment is due to any resident who has been in Oregon for at least 200 days.
It is available to a broad spectrum of individuals, including low-income workers, the jobless, and dependents, as there are no further income or employment requirements.
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Barriers and Reluctance
Measure 118 still faces obstacles, especially from the corporate community, despite its growing popularity. In order to finance these checks, the proposal proposes to increase the minimum corporation tax rate for businesses with annual revenues above $25 million by 3%.
Businesses are naturally concerned about this, as many believe the tax hike will affect their bottom lines and may result in increased pricing for consumers.
The opposition contends that firms with narrower profit margins may suffer if taxes are levied on revenue rather than profits. This issue draws attention to the conflict between helping people financially and the possible effects on corporations.
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Schedule of Approval
In 2026, the first checks would probably be sent if the bill is approved in the November 2025 referendum.
As low-income households in Oregon continue to be impacted by inflation and rising rent costs, these cheques would act as refunds from the prior year’s taxes, providing much-needed respite. If approved, the plan might serve as a model for other states dealing with comparable housing affordability problems.
Timeline:
- November 2025 is the voting date
- Checks issued for the first time: 2026
The Possible Effect on Tenants
Although the stimulus check is intended to offer short-term respite, it may also help avert long-term issues like homelessness or extreme financial difficulties.
In order to pay their rent, Oregon’s renters are being compelled to make more difficult decisions, such reducing their intake of food, medication, or other necessities.
The situation has gotten so bad that “renters are cutting back on food and medicine to afford rent,” according to Leeor Schweitzer, an organizer with Portland Tenants United.
The $1,600 check can help many people, even though it doesn’t address the larger housing situation. Renters would be able to pay for necessities with this instant financial assistance, which would also act as a vital buffer against future housing instability.
