Advocates Call for Housing Access Now!

https://cvision.org/2025/04/advocates-call-for-housing-access-now/

April 4, 2025

Several dozen advocates—who are wearing rain coats and hats, and holding a few umbrellas—stand in front of a modern grey granite building. Some of the people have visible disabilities. One woman holds a megaphone. — Advocates rally in front of the Capitol, Salem, Oregon, March 20, 2025

Advocates Rally for Housing Accessibility as SB 444 Advances in the Legislature

The push for accessible housing in Oregon gained momentum on March 20 as several dozen advocates with disabilities gathered outside the State Capitol to rally support for Senate Bill 444. The bill, which aims to increase the number of accessible housing units across the state, is set to move out of the Senate Housing committee on April 9.

The enthusiasm of the crowd was undeniable as chants like “When I say housing, you say access! Housing! Access!” and “Hey! Hey! Hear our call! Housing access is for all!” echoed through the Capitol grounds. Supporters waved signs reading “Support SB 444” and “Housing Access NOW,” underscoring the urgency of the cause.

Personal Stories Highlight Urgent Need

Several speakers addressed the crowd, emphasizing the critical need for accessible housing. Cassie Wilson, who uses a motorized scooter, shared her personal struggles navigating the inaccessible housing market in Clackamas County. While she eventually secured an “accessible” unit in east Portland, the layout still poses challenges to her independence.

“Even when we find housing that’s labeled as accessible, it often doesn’t meet the needs of people with disabilities,” Wilson explained. Her story illustrates the difficult choices many people with disabilities face, often having to compromise on their independence or settle for inadequate housing.

Nico Serra echoed this sentiment, highlighting that adequate housing is a foundation for meeting daily needs and pursuing life goals. “If you can’t get around your home easily, everything else becomes harder,” Serra said.

Advocates hold signs saying "Support SB444" and "Housing Access Now" and stand on stairs in front of a building. — Advocates demanding more accessible housing, Salem, March 20, 2025

SB 444: Addressing a Longstanding Gap

Senate Bill 444 seeks to address the persistent lack of accessible housing in Oregon. Although 16 percent of Oregonians have disabilities, current building codes require accessibility features in only 2 percent of housing units—and only in buildings with 20 or more units. SB 444 proposes increasing this requirement to at least 10 percent of units in buildings with 15 or more units, a change advocates say is long overdue.

Alan DeLaTorre, who also spoke at the rally, noted that the need for accessible housing will only increase as Oregon’s population ages. Without a proactive approach, people with disabilities and older adults will continue to struggle to find housing that meets their needs.

Two people who use wheelchairs speak to a crowd in front of the state capitol — Scenes from the rally

A woman with a bullhorn surrounded by advocates

Advocates with disabilities pose for a group photo

Community Vision and Partners Lead the Charge

The March 20 rally was organized by Community Vision and its partners, who have been at the forefront of the effort to improve housing access for people with disabilities. Their work, along with the passion and dedication of advocates statewide, is bringing attention to the dire need for change.

As SB 444 moves closer to a full vote, advocates remain hopeful that the bill will pave the way for a more inclusive housing landscape in Oregon. If passed, the bill would be a significant step toward ensuring that all Oregonians—regardless of ability—have access to safe, affordable, and truly accessible housing.

Learn More

You can learn more about SB 444 and about barriers to housing faced by people with disabilities in our report “Access Denied: An Overview of the Housing Crisis for People with Disabilities.”

Campaign for Accessible, Affordable Housing