Committee pauses algorithmic‑pricing bill, opting to pass by indefinitely and seek Housing Commission review

Senate Bill 585, a substitute focusing on transparency in rental pricing when landlords use algorithmic pricing devices, was the subject of extended committee discussion before senators voted to pass the bill by indefinitely and request a Housing Commission review.

The substitute narrowed the bill’s scope to the rental market, removed broader Fair Housing and residential disclosure language from earlier drafts, and included requirements for written disclosure to prospective tenants before lease execution, a right to request human review of tenant determinations generated by an algorithmic pricing device, and a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per violation enforceable by the attorney general.

Industry representatives — including counsel for RealPage, Zillow, and the Apartment and Office Building Association — signaled willingness to work with the sponsor on notice and transparency, but raised concerns about broad definitions of algorithmic device and restrictions on the use of public data. Committee members expressed skepticism about rushing complex definitional work within limited time. Multiple senators suggested the Housing Commission could produce a more considered, multi‑stakeholder effort.

Given the short window before crossover and the technical questions remaining, the committee voted to pass SB 585 by indefinitely and send a letter to the Housing Commission for further vetting and potential refinement.