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Republicans warn rent control could reduce housing supply, outline bills to speed housing production
Summary
Senate and House Republican leaders argued rent control would depress investment and said the caucus will pursue permitting reform, energy‑code stability and lot‑splitting legislation; they cited bills including House Bill 1099 and House Bill 1164 and raised permit‑delay and regulatory‑cost figures.
Republican leaders at a virtual press availability said they oppose rent‑control proposals and will prioritize measures aimed at increasing housing supply.
Senate Republican Leader John Braun argued that rent control and similar price‑caps can deter private investment, "prevent significant investment" and ultimately reduce the number of rental units available, "and therefore higher prices long term." He and other leaders said research and economists' studies undergird those concerns.
House Republican Leader Drew Stokesberry and other members outlined a package of supply‑focused measures they will pursue: simplifying state permitting requirements, stabilizing the state energy code so builders face fewer mid‑stream changes, allowing lot splitting and expanding accessory dwelling unit (ADU) authority. Stokesberry cited specific bills his caucus has introduced or supported, including House Bill 1099 (tenant assistance expansion) and House Bill 1164 (UGA/permitting changes); he also referenced a lot‑splitting bill and an ADU expansion proposal.
Speakers cited planning and permitting metrics they said justify reforms: Stokesberry said the "average permit delay" is about 6.5 months and that the cost of building‑related regulations can add roughly $144,000 to the price of a median home. Leaders argued increasing supply—by easing permitting and adding housing choices—rather than imposing rent caps is the correct long‑term approach.
Reporters pressed for details about which bills will be heard; leaders said some bills are not yet formally introduced and that committee processes will determine next steps.
