Renters Rally In Sacramento In Support of Statewide Rent Control Bill

Renters gathered at the California State Capitol to advocate for Assembly Bill 1157, which seeks to limit maximum rent increases to 5% annually. Sponsored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra, the bill aims to protect renters from displacement and homelessness amid California's ongoing housing crisis. Kalra stated, “California must take every step to help keep families from being displaced,” highlighting the need for stronger rent control measures. The California Apartment Association has voiced strong opposition, claiming that such regulations would reduce available housing stock. As nearly half of California's population consists of renters, the bill's passage could significantly impact many families.

The measure recently passed its first committee vote and is headed to the Assembly's Judiciary Committee. This rally follows allegations of landlord-funded protests against rent control in Concord, indicating a broader conflict over housing policy in the state. The outcome of this legislation could reshape California's rental landscape and influence future housing policies.