Senate panel advances rent-cap bill with amendments after divided debate

Engrossed House Bill 1217, a measure to limit annual rent increases and add other tenant protections, received a due-pass recommendation from the Senate Housing Committee on March 26 and was sent to the Ways and Means Committee.

The bill would cap annual rent increases at 7% for most rental properties, prohibit rent increases during the first 12 months of tenancy and during any subsequent 12-month period, and require at least 90 days' written notice before landlords raise rent. The measure also specifies penalties and enforcement mechanisms, including private causes of action and authority for the Attorney General to bring enforcement actions and seek civil penalties.

Bill Fosbury, staff to the committee, summarized the bill for members and described the scope of the proposed limits and exemptions. He said, “This bill caps annual rent increases at 7% for most rental properties and prohibits rent increases during the first 12 months of tenancy and during any 12 month period thereafter.”

Why it matters: Committee members framed the measure as an attempt to stabilize housing costs for tenants while balancing owners’ interests. Supporters said the bill provides predictability for households facing rising rents; opponents warned of unintended consequences for property owners and the housing…