Substitute Senate Bill No. 1266, also known as Public Act No. 25-121, mandates that towns, cities, or boroughs with a population of 25,000 or more must establish a fair rent commission to address and investigate complaints regarding rental charges on housing accommodations, excluding those rented on a seasonal basis. The bill stipulates that these commissions will have the authority to conduct hearings, issue subpoenas, and retain legal counsel. A significant addition to the law is that all hearings conducted by these commissions must be open to the public, ensuring transparency in the process.

Furthermore, the bill requires that any bylaws adopted by the fair rent commissions be made publicly available on the respective town, city, or borough's website. The deadline for towns, cities, or boroughs to create these commissions is set for July 1, 2023, with a requirement to notify the Commissioner of Housing within thirty days of the ordinance's adoption. The legislation aims to enhance oversight and accountability in rental practices, thereby protecting tenants from excessive rental charges.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-148b
HSG Joint Favorable Substitute: 7-148b
File No. 72: 7-148b
Public Act No. 25-121: 7-148b