Montgomery County renters relieved after rent stabilization bill passes

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. ( DC News Now ) – The rent stabilization bill has been in the works for a year. On Tuesday, it passed the Montgomery County Council unanimously, and renters said the legislation gives them peace of mind, knowing they’ll be able to afford to stay in the county they call home.

Montgomery County leaders said this new legislation aims to protect tenants from outrageous rent hikes.

“The rent stabilization law caps rent increases for eligible buildings at inflation plus 3%, or 6%, whichever is lower,” said Montgomery County Councilmember Kristin Mink. “So, it’s a hard cap of 6%, and in some years, it’s going to be lower.”

Jordan Agee is a renter who lives in Downtown Silver Spring.

“It’s a great feeling because for me personally, I don’t have kids, but I like to spend on shoes, I like to buy other things,” said Agee. “So if I know all my money is going straight to rent, I don’t have the luxury to live the life that I want to.”

Agee said the legislation allows him and others to budget in advance and opens up opportunities to explore various living options.

“Let’s say you’re in your one situation, and you’re not feeling it,” said Agee. “All right, let me look and see what else is in the area.”

Rocio Rossi also lives in Silver Spring. She said the law is crucial for renters because she knows people in other parts of the DMV who have not been as fortunate.

“I have friends in Arlington that have to move out because the rent went up over 19%,” said Rossi.

Rossi said the legislation gives her a sense of relief and security that she didn’t have before.

“I am glad that if it goes up next year, I know it’s going to be just a little fraction of what I’m paying and not a surprise,” said Rossi.

The rent stabilization bill goes into effect immediately. However, there are several exceptions to it. Councilmember Mink says the bill does not cover Rockville or Gaithersburg because those cities have their own councils to make laws.

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