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Charles County rent-stabilization bill for seniors divides builders, advocates
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Summary
SB 9-53 would authorize Charles County to cap annual rent increases for seniors at CPI plus 3%; proponents said it protects fixed-income older adults, while developers and multifamily groups warned of reduced investment, financing challenges and negative effects on housing supply.
A delegation staffer, Jordan Lewis, presented Senate Bill 9-53 on behalf of the Charles County Senate delegation, describing the measure as a targeted authorization for Charles County to adopt a rent-increase limit for seniors tied to the Consumer Price Index plus three percentage points.
“Many older adults live on fixed incomes… Sudden or excessive rent increases can create severe financial hardship for seniors,” Jordan Lewis said, explaining the bill would allow counties to limit increases to CPI + 3% to preserve housing stability for eligible seniors.
Supporters including LeadingAge Maryland and county officials urged the bill as a narrowly tailored tool to protect residents on fixed incomes. Danielle Mitchell, acting deputy county administrator for Charles County, said the board of commissioners developed the proposal after public hearings and asked that the bill apply to units leased by seniors.
Opponents including the Maryland Multi Housing Association and Apartment & Office Building Association argued the policy could deter multifamily investment and financing, pointing to data showing large permit drops in Montgomery County after its rent-control action and arguing that county-level rent control can reduce new housing production.
Next steps: Committee members pressed proponents on the scope — whether eligibility would be age- or income- based — and requested additional data comparing local rent trends. The committee concluded testimony and will consider amendments.
