Bill > HR171

This resolution urges the Hawaii Attorney General to conduct a comprehensive investigation into algorithmic price-setting and potential price-fixing practices in the state's rental housing market. The resolution highlights Hawaii's ongoing affordable housing crisis, where over half of renters spend more than 30% of their income on rent, and notes concerns about property management software potentially enabling landlords to artificially inflate rental prices. Specifically, the Attorney General is asked to examine the use of property management software, the role of algorithms in setting rental prices, potential collusion among rental property owners, and the impact of these practices on housing affordability. The resolution requests a detailed report analyzing whether these algorithmic practices contribute to rising rental prices, with recommendations for potential legislative or regulatory actions to address anti-competitive practices. The Attorney General is expected to submit this report to the Legislature twenty days before the 2026 Regular Session, with the broader goal of addressing Hawaii's affordable housing challenges and ensuring a competitive rental market that protects consumers.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=171&year=2025