Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5060

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
2/8/23  

Caption

Requiring the registration of rental and vacant housing units.

Impact

The passage of SB5060 represents a significant shift in state housing laws, as it will establish a formal requirement for landlords to register their rental properties. This legislation may lead to improved housing data collection, which could inform policy decisions and improve rental market transparency. Additionally, it can provide local authorities with tools to manage housing affordability and availability more effectively, potentially leading to enhanced legal frameworks around tenant protections as well.

Summary

SB5060 aims to enhance the housing market's regulation by requiring the registration of rental and vacant housing units. This bill seeks to address issues within the rental housing sector, such as the availability of rental properties and the oversight of vacant units. By mandating this registration, the bill's proponents argue that it will allow state and local governments to better manage housing resources, track available rental units, and potentially reduce homelessness through increased awareness of vacant properties.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding SB5060 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the bill will bring much-needed regulation and oversight to the rental market, potentially mitigating issues related to unregistered and neglected properties. However, there are concerns from some landlord associations and property rights advocates who fear that increased regulation may impose an undue burden on property owners and lead to higher rental costs, negatively affecting tenants in the long run.

Contention

Key points of contention around SB5060 involve the potential impacts on housing affordability and the administrative burden placed on landlords. Critics argue that while the intention of better oversight is commendable, it may inadvertently lead to stricter regulations that could deter property investment or increase rents. Furthermore, the bill's implementation processes, including how registration will be enforced and any associated fees, have sparked debate among stakeholders, with calls for considerations that protect both tenant rights and landlord interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB6152

Requiring certain counties to measure the gap between estimated existing housing units and existing housing needs.

WA HB1585

Requiring verification of citizenship for voter registration.

WA HB1736

Revised for 1st Substitute: Requiring the department of licensing to request motor vehicle odometer readings upon vehicle registration.Original: Requiring the department of licensing to collect vehicle odometer readings at the time of original vehicle registration and registration renewal.

WA HB1928

Requiring senate confirmation of gubernatorial appointments to vacancies on the supreme court.

WA HB1929

Requiring senate confirmation of gubernatorial appointments to vacancies on the court of appeals.

WA SB5587

Concerning affordable housing development in counties not closing the gap between estimated existing housing units within the county and existing housing needs.

WA LB270

Change provisions relating to the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and rental registration ordinances

WA SB5580

Concerning the registration of certain corporations and trusts that own single-family homes and condominium units.

WA LB313

Change provisions relating to special elections and filling vacancies in the United States Senate and House of Representatives

WA HB1337

Expanding housing options by easing barriers to the construction and use of accessory dwelling units.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.