Assemblymember Haney introduces AB 12 48 to curb deceptive landlord fees in California

The California Assembly Judiciary Committee meeting on April 22, 2025, focused on two significant bills aimed at addressing consumer protection in housing and health safety regulations.

The first bill, AB 12 48, seeks to protect tenants from hidden fees imposed by landlords. Assemblymember Haney, the bill's author, emphasized the need for transparency in rental agreements, stating that tenants should not be blindsided by unexpected charges after moving in. The proposed legislation would limit landlords to charging only rent, a refundable security deposit, and a small set of clearly defined fees starting in 2026. This measure aims to prevent landlords from circumventing rent control laws by adding excessive fees that can significantly increase the cost of living for renters.

Supporters of AB 12 48, including tenant rights advocates and legal aid organizations, highlighted the growing prevalence of deceptive billing practices, such as ratio utility billing systems (RUBS), which can lead to unpredictable utility charges for tenants. They argued that these practices disproportionately affect low-income renters and undermine the protections established by California's Tenant Protection Act.

However, the bill faced opposition from various landlord associations and real estate groups. Critics argued that the legislation could lead to increased base rents for all tenants, as landlords would need to cover costs for optional services and amenities within the rent. They expressed concerns that the bill could reduce the availability of rental housing and create excessive litigation risks for landlords.

The second major topic discussed was the health safety regulations concerning the use of certain chemicals in consumer products, particularly focusing on bisphenol A (BPA) and antimony. Representatives from the International Bottled Water Association and other industry groups expressed opposition to the proposed regulations, arguing that they fall outside the FDA's regulatory framework and could create compliance challenges for manufacturers. They emphasized the need for continued dialogue with lawmakers to address these concerns.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges in balancing tenant protections with the interests of landlords and manufacturers. Both bills will require further refinement as stakeholders continue to negotiate their implications for California's housing market and public health standards. The committee's next steps will involve reviewing amendments and preparing for potential votes in the coming weeks.