Representative Carlin proposes mobile home legislation to combat rental price hikes in Missoula

The Socialism Speaker Series 2025 meeting in Missoula, Montana, focused on addressing the housing crisis exacerbated by private equity firms purchasing real estate. Participants discussed the challenges posed by these companies, which often raise rents and limit housing options for residents.

One key speaker highlighted the urgent need for state-level strategies to combat the influence of private equity in the housing market. They referenced ongoing efforts, such as a proposed mobile home lot act aimed at protecting residents from out-of-state investors who inflate prices. However, the speaker acknowledged the difficulty in crafting effective policies that do not inadvertently discriminate or create further issues.

The discussion emphasized the importance of increasing housing supply as a potential solution. Suggestions included implementing community land trusts to stimulate market movement and proposing longer notice periods for rent increases to give tenants more time to adjust. A comprehensive rewrite of the Landlord Tenant Act was also suggested to empower local governments to enact inclusive zoning and rent control measures.

The speaker expressed optimism about the potential for legislative change, particularly if the Democratic party gains a majority. They noted that there is a strong commitment among progressive legislators to tackle housing issues, indicating a willingness to collaborate across party lines to find solutions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexity of the housing crisis in Missoula and the need for innovative policies to protect residents from the impacts of private equity investment in real estate. The discussions highlighted a collective desire for actionable strategies to ensure affordable housing remains accessible to all.