Democrats in Washington Push Through Rent Control Bill After Intense Negotiations

On Sunday, Washington state legislators approved a proposal to limit yearly rental hikes, finally concluding an contentious debate as their 2025 session came to an end. However, it remains uncertain whether Governor Bob Ferguson will endorse the rent control legislation.

House Bill 1217 , the product of a late-session compromise between House and Senate Democrats, will cap rent hikes at 7% plus inflation, or 10%, whichever is lower. The bill also bars landlords from raising rents during the first 12 months of a new tenancy. Single-family homes are not exempt from the cap.

The Senate ratified the final draft with a tally of 27-20, as two Democratic members sided with Republicans against it. Subsequently, the House passed it with a 54-44 vote, with five Democrats diverging from their party lines. Notably, zero Republicans supported the measure.

This is among the most fruitful discussions on housing affordability our state has experienced," Senator Jessica Batman (D-Olympia) stated. "This success stems from robust alliance-building both within and beyond the Legislature, collaborative efforts across party lines with our Republican counterparts, as well as continuous and prolonged involvement with the public and those directly impacted by these concerns. I am pleased with our achievements thus far this year but recognize that additional effort will be necessary.

The rental price limit in Washington was established through extensive discussions lasting several weeks.

The finalized form of the bill encapsulates months of discussions.

Initially, HB 1217 limited annual rent hikes to 7%. However, a Senate amendment increased this cap to 10% plus inflation. Following objections from House Democrats, a conference committee reached a middle ground later on Thursday.

The legislation also establishes a 5% cap on rent increases for manufactured and mobile homes, with no expiration date. For most other residential properties, the rent cap is set to expire after 15 years unless renewed.

Starting from June 1, 2025, the state Department of Commerce has to release the highest permitted rental price increase each year, determined by the Seattle-area Consumer Price Index. Additionally, landlords are obligated to inform their tenants about potential rent hikes at least 90 days beforehand.

New constructions receive an exemption from the cap for the first 12 years. Additionally, properties held by public housing agencies and specific nonprofits are excluded. Certain modest residences occupied by their owners, including duplexes or those featuring additional living spaces like guest houses, do not fall under this regulation either.

Is Governor Ferguson going to approve the rent control legislation?

Republicans criticized the bill, claiming it tackles effects instead of root causes.

"Without supplies, rental prices increase," Representative Sam Low (R-Lake Stevens) stated during the floor discussion. He encouraged his peers to concentrate their efforts on eliminating regulations that raise the expense and complexity of constructing additional homes instead.