City officials in Tacoma are considering significant changes to tenant protections in response to concerns over the local rental market. The proposed adjustments to the Landlord Fairness Code Initiative (LFCI), which was enacted in 2023, aim to address the unintended consequences of the “Tenant Bill of Rights.” This initiative was designed to protect tenants and families while addressing homelessness but has sparked debate about its impact on the rental landscape.
During a study session on November 28, 2023, the Tacoma City Council discussed potential amendments to the LFCI. This measure included strong renter protections, such as capping late payment fees at $10 per month, banning evictions during winter months or the school year, and requiring landlords to pay relocation costs if they raised rent by 5% or more. While organizations like Tacoma For All played a crucial role in the initiative’s passage, concerns about its effectiveness have emerged since its implementation.
Council members are now weighing whether adjustments could enhance stability in the rental market and reduce homelessness. Reports indicate that the LFCI has destabilized budgets for low-income housing providers, with increasing instances of rental unit damage and landlords facing financial strain due to prolonged unpaid rents. The council’s discussions reflect a growing recognition that the current framework may be limiting access to housing for vulnerable tenants.
Proposed changes include raising the late fee cap from $10 to a maximum of $75, and modifying the eviction notice period from two notifications between 210 and 180 days to a single 120-day written notice for damage or other causes. Additionally, the eviction moratorium, currently set at five months from December 1 to March 1, could be reduced to just three months. Some council members, like Jamika Scott, argue for extending the moratorium to cover a broader range of dates, suggesting a timeframe from November 15 to March 15 to better align with local weather patterns.
Despite the LFCI’s initial voter support, the Tacoma City Council has the authority to amend or repeal the initiative two years after its passage. Council members have expressed concern that affordable housing providers are witnessing tenants accumulate significant rent debt, which could jeopardize their operations. The council plans to revisit the LFCI for a first reading on December 2, 2023, with a final vote anticipated on December 9, 2023.
As Tacoma navigates these complex issues, the outcome of the council’s deliberations will likely have far-reaching implications for both renters and landlords in the city. The ongoing discussions highlight the delicate balance between protecting tenants and ensuring the viability of rental housing in the region.
