HB 1217, a smart policy that will cap rent increases at 7%, increase notice periods for rent increases, and limit expensive move-in fees and security deposits, is in front of the House Appropriations Committee. We need a YES vote in this committee on Monday, 2/10 at 4 PM to keep this bill moving!

Washington is already one of the most expensive rental markets in the country. Nearly 40% of Washington’s households are renter households. Washington’s legislature has shown leadership in passing legislation to increase our state’s housing supply through reform of zoning laws (HB 1220, HB 1110, HB 1337). But tackling supply alone will be insufficient in solving our state’s housing crisis. Tenants need predictability now, but supply-based strategies will take years to affect prices due to the time it takes for new buildings to be built. Rental spikes during this waiting period make current residents vulnerable to displacement before they see the benefits from more housing supply.