The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 334, aims to amend the composition of fair rent commissions in municipalities. Specifically, it mandates that, starting January 1, 2027, these commissions must consist of an equal number of landlords and tenants, with each group making up fifty percent of the commission's membership. This change is intended to ensure balanced representation and fair consideration of both landlords' and tenants' perspectives in rental charge matters.
Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities and powers of fair rent commissions, including the ability to conduct hearings, issue subpoenas, and retain legal counsel. It requires municipalities with populations of 15,000 or more to establish or join a fair rent commission by January 1, 2028, and stipulates that any existing commissions cannot be abolished before this date unless they join a joint or regional commission. The bill also emphasizes the importance of public access to commission bylaws and allows for electronic participation in meetings.