Georgia House Bill HB1157

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/24

Caption

Fair Business Practices Act of 1975; violation of statute limiting certain rent increases is an unlawful business practice; provide

Impact

If enacted, HB 1157 would significantly alter landlord-tenant relationships in the state. The focus on limiting increases in rent aims to provide stability for tenants, particularly for seniors and students, who may be more vulnerable to rapid rent fluctuations. The bill introduces specific defenses for tenants in eviction cases, especially if landlords are found to have charged excessive rent. This change is intended to enhance tenant rights and provide a framework for maintaining affordable housing options in the face of rising market costs.

Summary

House Bill 1157, titled the 'Fair Rent Control Act of 2024,' aims to amend the Fair Business Practices Act of 1975 by establishing limitations on rent increases in Georgia. The bill explicitly prohibits landlords from raising rents during the fixed term of a rental agreement unless such provisions are included in the agreement. Additionally, it sets a maximum annual rent increase of 3% based on the lowest rent charged in the prior 12 months. For tenants who are full-time college students aged 18-26 and senior citizens primarily relying on Social Security, the bill restricts the annual increase to no more than 2%. The legislation also mandates that landlords provide tenants with at least 120 days of notice before any rent increase becomes effective.

Contention

The bill has drawn both support and criticism. Proponents argue that it offers necessary protections for some of the most vulnerable tenants in Georgia, while opponents express concerns that such regulations may place undue constraints on landlords and could strain housing supply dynamics. Critics also question the effectiveness of state-level interventions in addressing local housing market variations. Discussions in committee meetings have highlighted the importance of balancing tenant rights with the needs of property owners, indicating ongoing debates about the appropriate level of government involvement in housing markets.