Tenant Protections

Renter rights, eviction defense, rent stabilization, just-cause, late fees, security deposits

Meeting history

1. July 22, 2026
   Housing, Arts, and Civil Rights Committee97%

   The committee debated and adopted a new ordinance banning landlord‑assessed junk fees, including pet rent, while also recommending Council Bill 121259 to create a do‑not‑solicit list for homeowners. Key positions ranged from landlords warning that eliminating pet rent could raise rents by about 1.5 % to tenant advocates demanding transparency and audit mechanisms; the amendment requiring solicitors to disclose contact information was passed 4‑0. No formal vote on the junk‑fee ordinance itself was recorded, but it was forwarded to council for consideration and a special session is scheduled for August 3. The next steps include the July 28 council vote on Bill 121259 and the August 3 special session to review the junk‑fee ordinance.

2. July 8, 2026
   Housing, Arts and Civil Rights Committee Meeting — July 8, 202692%

   During the July 8, 2026 Housing, Arts and Civil Rights Committee meeting the council heard a briefing on a proposed junk‑fee ordinance that would prohibit non‑essential rental charges such as pet rent, administrative fees and utility surcharges. Tenants and advocacy groups urged a full‑strength ban, citing economic burden and racial disparities, while developers warned that eliminating optional fees could shift costs into base rent and reduce supply. No vote was taken on the ordinance during this session; the committee will review amendment concepts and schedule a potential vote for July 22, 2026.