CALIFORNIA – Assemblymember Ash Kalra and co-sponsors withdrew Assembly Bill (AB) 1157, April 29, a measure that would have permanently capped rent hikes to 5%.
Kalra cited the need for ‘more time’ to work on the bill.
About 150 opponents of AB 1157 attended last Thursday’s Assembly Housing Committee hearing where the bill was debated before it was passed 7-5, according to the California Apartment Association (CAA).
It was set to go to the Judiciary Committee this week, however, it was withdrawn.
Kalra said the debate and discussions with Judiciary Committee members signaled more time is needed to work on the bill
“As we enter an economic downturn and vulnerable Californians enter more dire financial situations, we must guide our policies with empathy for one another, especially as it pertains to keeping families in their homes,” said Kalra.
Bill may be reintroduced next year
Kalra said AB 1157 will become a two-year bill. This means the bill will not move forward this year but may be reintroduced next year.
AB 1157 proposed lowering the maximum allowable rent increase to either 2% plus the change in the cost of living or 5%, whichever is lower.
The bill would have also permanently extended rent control protections to single-family homes.
CAA testified against AB 1157, warning it would stifle housing development and discourage investment in rental housing.
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