Jared Polis vetoes bill that would have restricted the use of rent-setting software, like RealPage

Governor Jared Polis vetoed House Bill 1004 on May 29, 2025, which aimed to ban certain rent-setting algorithms in Colorado. He expressed concerns that the bill could eliminate legitimate technologies used by landlords, potentially worsening the housing supply crisis. Polis stated that existing laws already prohibit collusion among landlords, asserting that violators should be held accountable under current regulations. Consumer protection advocates argue that algorithms like those used by RealPage facilitate collusion, driving up rental prices significantly. A 2024 study found that such practices could increase rents by as much as $136 per month.

The veto underscores the complex interplay between technology and housing affordability, as Polis seeks to ensure that tools aiding housing management remain available while addressing concerns about price-fixing. This decision also reflects a broader trend in Colorado's legislative landscape, where Polis has vetoed a record number of bills this year.