End Rent Fixing Act of 2025
Summary
The End Rent Fixing Act of 2025 aims to prohibit the manipulation of rent prices in the United States by targeting coordinated efforts among rental property owners. It defines key terms such as 'coordinating function' and 'coordinator' to identify activities that involve collecting, analyzing, and recommending rental prices. The bill seeks to prevent rental property owners from conspiring to use these coordinating services, deeming such actions unlawful under the Federal Trade Commission Act and the Sherman Act.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would make it illegal for rental property owners to collude on rental prices through third-party services. This could lead to more competitive rental markets and potentially lower or more stable rent prices for tenants. The Act empowers the Federal Trade Commission, the Attorney General, and State Attorneys General to enforce these provisions.
Potential Benefits
- Could lead to lower and more competitive rental prices.
- Prevents anti-competitive practices in the rental market.
- Empowers renters to take civil action against violators.
- Increases transparency in rental pricing.
- Could reduce the risk of artificial inflation of rental costs.
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase compliance costs for rental property owners.
- Could potentially stifle innovation in rental market analysis tools if overly broad.
- May lead to increased litigation as individuals and states seek to enforce the Act.
- Potential for unintended consequences if the definition of 'coordinating function' is too broad.
- Possible challenges in proving conspiracy or coordination in rental pricing.
Constitutional Alignment
The End Rent Fixing Act of 2025 aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By addressing rent-fixing, the Act aims to prevent restraints on trade that could affect the national economy. The Act's enforcement mechanisms, involving the FTC and the Attorney General, are consistent with the powers granted to the executive branch to enforce laws enacted by Congress.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).