New tenant protections initiative on ballot for Bellingham voters this November

Bellingham voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on Initiative 25-03 this November, which seeks to protect tenants from landlord retaliation related to various protected actions. These actions include organizing tenants, reporting legal violations, and distributing leaflets in common areas. The city council approved the initiative unanimously, highlighting its importance to local tenant rights. Proposed by Community First Whatcom, the initiative also aims to ban nondisclosure agreements tied to lease agreements. On August 1, two new ordinances will prohibit landlords from charging tenants and mobile home residents "junk fees.

" This reflects a broader trend towards strengthening tenant protections in Bellingham and beyond. The initiative's approval could lead to significant changes in how landlords interact with tenants. Voter support could establish a precedent for similar measures in other regions.