Washington Senate Bill SB5222

Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25
• Report Pass: 2/19/25
• Refer: 2/20/25

Caption

Improving housing stability for tenants subject to the residential landlord-tenant act and the manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant act by limiting rent and fee increases, requiring notice of rent and fee increases, limiting fees and deposits, establishing a landlord resource center and associated services, authorizing tenant lease termination, creating parity between lease types, and providing for attorney general enforcement.

Impact

By implementing these changes, SB5222 seeks to empower tenants and enhance their legal protections against potential exploitation by landlords. The establishment of a landlord resource center, as outlined in the bill, would provide assistance to both landlords and tenants, promoting awareness of rights and responsibilities under the law. Notably, this bill introduces provisions for the attorney general to enforce these regulations, which would underscore the seriousness of adherence to the newly established guidelines.

Summary

SB5222 focuses on improving housing stability for tenants within the frameworks of the residential landlord-tenant act and the manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant act. The bill aims to introduce a range of protections for tenants, including limitations on rent and fee increases, required notices for said increases, and limitations on fees and deposits. These measures are intended to create a more predictable and stable housing environment for tenants at risk of displacement due to sudden financial burdens imposed by landlords.

Contention

While SB5222 is largely seen as a positive step toward safeguarding tenant rights, it is likely to spur discussion regarding the balance between regulation and free market principles in the housing sector. Proponents argue that such protections are necessary to prevent housing instability among vulnerable populations, while opponents may contend that too much regulation could deter investment in rental properties and ultimately harm housing supply. The bill's provisions on rent controls will also likely be a point of contention, drawing varied opinions on their effectiveness and ramifications on the rental market.