St. Petersburg City Council Moves to Reinstate Tenant Protections Amid State Law Restrictions

In response to a state law that stripped local governments of tenant protections, the St. Petersburg City Council has initiated steps to restore some of these safeguards. On August 22, 2024, the council passed a resolution urging staff to negotiate a "tenants notice of rights" for affordable housing projects. This measure is intended to empower renters with clearer rights, particularly regarding rent increases and discrimination based on income sources like housing vouchers. Council member Richie Floyd underscored the potential positive impact on housing stability, especially in light of the limitations imposed by state legislation.

However, the resolution is restricted to projects that receive city funding, meaning its effectiveness depends on voluntary compliance from developers. The council voted 7-1 in favor of the resolution, with Ed Montanari dissenting due to concerns over state preemption. This effort highlights the ongoing struggle between local initiatives and state-level regulations concerning tenant rights. Overall, the resolution reflects a commitment to enhancing tenant protections in a challenging legal landscape.