Bill > S1016

This bill establishes the Preventing Algorithmic Rent Fixing in the Rental Housing Market Act, which aims to prohibit certain practices in the rental housing market that could potentially lead to anti-competitive behavior. The legislation defines key terms such as "service provider" (an entity that collects, analyzes, and recommends rental prices and terms) and "real estate lessor" (property owners who lease residential units). The bill specifically prohibits real estate lessors from subscribing to or contracting with service providers that might facilitate agreements not to compete, and it prevents service providers from helping lessors coordinate pricing or lease terms in ways that could restrict market competition. The bill provides robust enforcement mechanisms, including allowing violations to be treated as unfair methods of competition under existing consumer protection laws. Plaintiffs can seek damages, including interest and attorney fees, and the bill explicitly invalidates pre-dispute arbitration agreements or joint-action waivers in cases related to these violations. Additionally, the bill lowers the standard for filing civil complaints by allowing plaintiffs to demonstrate that anti-competitive practices are among "plausible possibilities" rather than requiring definitive proof of such practices. The legislation applies to residential dwelling units, excluding specific facilities like medical care and correctional institutions.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1016