Ranch Records in downtown Salem is holding a going out of business sale after 38 years in business. (Amanda Loman/Salem Reporter)
The Oregon House passed a bill on Friday intended to keep businesses from closing their doors.
THE ISSUE: Bars, restaurants and other businesses are behind on rent.
THE BILL: House Bill 2966
The bill aims to support small businesses most affected by the Covid pandemic. HB 2966 will extend the previous deadline of March 31 to September 30, 2021.
WHAT IT DOES: Extends the deadline to pay back rent for non-residential spaces, which expired March 31, to Sept. 30.
WHY IT WAS PROPOSED: Federal relief funds are expected to start flowing into Oregon’s economy. Lawmakers wanted to prevent businesses from being evicted before then.
HOW THE MARION/POLK DELEGATION VOTED:
State Rep. Brian Clem, D-Salem: Yes
State Rep. Paul Evans, D-Monmouth: Excused
State Rep. Raquel Moore-Green, R-Salem: Yes
State Rep. Mike Nearman, R-Independence: Excused
Sate Rep. Bill Post, R-Keizer: No
State Rep. Teresa Alonso León, D-Woodburn: Yes
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT: The bill moves to the Senate for consideration.
-Jake Thomas
