Bill

Bill > HB817


MD HB817

MD HB817
Residential Leases - Use of Algorithmic Device by Landlord to Determine Rent - Prohibition


summary

Introduced
01/29/2025
In Committee
01/29/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
04/08/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Prohibiting a landlord from using certain algorithmic devices to determine the amount of rent to charge a residential tenant; making a violation of the Act an unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practice under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act; and applying the Act prospectively.

AI Summary

This bill prohibits landlords from using algorithmic devices that incorporate "nonpublic competitor data" when setting residential rent amounts. An algorithmic device is defined as a tool that uses algorithms to calculate rent based on data like local or statewide rental prices, with some exceptions such as monthly trade association reports or affordable housing programs. The bill specifically targets devices using "nonpublic competitor data", which includes non-public information about actual rent prices, occupancy rates, lease dates, and similar details obtained from market competitors. If a landlord violates this prohibition, it will be considered an unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practice under Maryland's Consumer Protection Act, subject to associated enforcement and penalty provisions. The law will apply only prospectively, meaning it will not affect rental agreements executed before its effective date of October 1, 2025, and cannot be applied retroactively to existing lease calculations.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

House Environment and Transportation Hearing (13:00:00 2/18/2025 ) (on 02/18/2025)

bill text


bill summary

Loading...

bill summary

Loading...
Loading...