Consumer Protection Bill Signing Remarks

September 15, 2025

Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you all for being here today.

As Governor, I have the honor of meeting and talking to a lot of people, who share things about their lives. Some stories are way too common. A parent afraid to take their kid to urgent care because they’re still paying off medical bills from the last visit. A family whose car deal fell through, leaving them scrambling to get to work. 

When simply doing the basics is getting more expensive every day, we have to do everything we can to protect Oregonians from unexpected costs, especially when it comes to leveling the playing field against large corporations who really aren’t looking out for people.

We’re here today to celebrate smart solutions to these common stories. I want to thank the legislative champions who brought these bills forward, and the advocates here in this room, who stepped up to make sure they crossed the finish line.  When Oregonians told you their stories, you didn’t write them off or judge them – you did something about it. You brought more fairness and transparency to the lives of Oregonians.

 

Senate Bill 605 brings fairness to people’s credit history. It means that when Oregonians face a medical crisis, they won't also face a credit crisis. No one should have to choose between getting the care they need and protecting their financial future. Medical debt will no longer haunt people's credit reports, giving families a real chance to get back on their feet.

Senate Bill 430 ends the guessing game of hidden online fees. We've all been there – you see a price, you think you can afford it, then suddenly there are processing fees, service charges, convenience fees. And you’ve already given your credit card information. At best, it’s not fair. At worst, those hidden fees can crack an already stretched family budget. Not anymore. Oregonians will know upfront exactly what they're paying. No surprises. No gotcha moments.

 

And House Bill 3178 brings fairness to buying a car. Dealers can't keep people hanging for two weeks anymore. They’ll have 10 days to get financing done, or they honor the original deal or let people walk away. And for the first time, all the paperwork will be available in Oregon's top six languages, so everyone can understand exactly what they're signing.

These bills are about making sure that when Oregonians are already struggling to make ends meet, they don't get hit with surprise fees or unfair practices. It's about giving people a fair shot. It's about breaking down barriers that have kept too many Oregonians from getting ahead.

 

Thank you all for being here. Thank you for your partnership. And thank you for helping us deliver for Oregon families.