Astoria, OR – Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has extended the state’s emergency order to continue addressing the growing homelessness crisis, announcing that Emergency Order 25-01 will remain in effect until January 10, 2026. The extension marks a significant step in the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce homelessness and establish a “robust response infrastructure.”
Kotek, who initially declared a statewide homelessness emergency on her first day in office with Executive Order 23-02, stressed the urgency of maintaining the current pace of efforts. “We must stay the course on what we see working,” Kotek said in a press release. “If we keep at this pace, 1 in every 3 people who were experiencing homelessness in 2023 will be rehoused.”
Since the original emergency declaration, the state has made considerable progress. Oregon has exceeded its initial targets, creating 600 new low-barrier shelter beds, rehousing 1,200 households, and preventing 8,750 households from becoming homeless. Projections for the 2023-2025 biennium show the state aims to fund 5,500 shelter beds, rehouse 3,300 households, and prevent 24,000 households from experiencing homelessness.
The Governor’s decision to extend the emergency order comes amid ongoing challenges, with homelessness rates continuing to rise in some areas of the state. Kotek emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in addressing the crisis, particularly as the needs of vulnerable populations persist.
Andrea Bell, Executive Director of Oregon Housing and Community Services, commended Kotek’s decisive leadership. “Governor Kotek came in with clear-eyed recognition that the state needed to act quickly and boldly,” Bell said. “This work is and has always been about people and making their life better.”
The state’s legislative response has been pivotal in supporting these initiatives. Shortly after the initial declaration of the homelessness emergency, the Oregon legislature passed a $155 million Homelessness Emergency Response Package, which has provided crucial funding for shelter programs and housing support. Subsequent legislation has further bolstered the state’s ability to combat homelessness and prevent its spread.
Governor Kotek’s administration continues to prioritize the expansion of shelter capacity, housing assistance, and homelessness prevention strategies. EO 25-01 directs state agencies to build upon the progress already made while addressing the growing demand for services.
As the emergency order remains in effect, Oregon officials are focused on ensuring the continued effectiveness of their response and working towards the ambitious goals set for the next biennium.
