Headed to the County Executive’s Desk, CB-055-2024 Caps Egregious Rent Hikes, Among other Housing Justice Victories
LARGO, MD – The Prince George’s County Council voted unanimously to pass CB-055-2024, a bill that restricts rent increases providing predictability to the County’s tenants. Renters from across the county organized to advocate for this bill which caps egregious rent hikes, prevents landlords from sharply increasing rents when an apartment becomes vacant, offers a lower rent cap for seniors, and prohibits new fees that were not previously included in a rental contract, among other protections.
Fifty-two percent of county residents pay more than 30% of their income on rent, making approximately approaching 65,000 households rent-burdened. Last year, the County passed a temporary rent stabilization bill with protections that were extended through October. With this bill, rent stabilization is a permanent protection for renters. Prince George’s County joins Montgomery County and more than 300 jurisdictions across the country in this forward-looking housing justice law.
Over the last several weeks, over 150 CASA members and partners from across Prince George’s County – from Langley Park to Upper Marlboro – lobbied the County Council, joined hearings to testify, rallied together, and shared their stories online.
CASA member Clyde Hargraves Sr., has been on the front line advocating for rent stabilization. He said, “I have had the privilege of residing in Prince George’s County for the past eighteen years. As a senior resident, I’m happy that the County voted for rent stabilization.” He added, “Today, we proved that our voices matter and no matter our age, we can impact legislation.”
“The passage of this legislation is a major stride towards protecting renters who are facing excessive rent increases. Working families in Prince George’s County deserve stability, and we are glad to see that the council has taken major steps to bring forward a permanent solution,” said CASA member Isabel Espinoza.
District 7 Councilmember Krystal Oriadha, has been a key champion spearheading rent stabilization in the county. After today’s vote, she said, “While this bill is a start it is simply not the end. We must continue to fight for tenants rights, fight against price gouging, and ensure that ALL Prince George’s residents are protected against predatory landlords and property owners.”
CB-55 awaits final approval by County Executive Alsobrooks.
With over 155,000 lifetime members across 46 US states, CASA is a national powerhouse organization building power and improving the quality of life in working-class: Black, Latino/a/e, Afro-descendent, Indigenous, and Immigrant communities. CASA creates change with its power building model blending human services, community organizing, and advocacy in order to serve the full spectrum of the needs, dreams, and aspirations of members. www.wearecasa.org