The economy feels pretty uncertain these days. As was reported recently in the Lynnwood Times, due to tariffs, many Washingtonians could suddenly find themselves paying a fair bit more for everyday items. Now, more than ever, our legislature should take action to bring economic stability to Washingtonians.
That’s why I hope the Washington legislature will pass HB 1217/SB 5222, a “rent stabilization” bill, which will prevent rent gouging and prohibit predatory fees to bring stability to the nearly 40% of Washington households who are renters.
Right now, excessive rent increases are outpacing incomes, disproportionately impacting seniors and families with children, and are a key driver of displacing people from their homes. Since I moved into a mobile home community, my lot rent has increased by double or triple the rate of inflation each year. If this continues unchecked, there is nowhere cheaper I could move.
Passing HB 1217/SB 5222 will give Washingtonians peace of mind that they won’t be suddenly priced out of their homes due to rent gouging. I hope legislators will act to pass this bill this session — this relief can’t come soon enough.
Kristen Fowler, Lynnwood, WA
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
