The Transparent Rates and Utility Expenses (TRUE) Amendment Act of 2026 aims to enhance transparency in utility billing for tenants in the District of Columbia. The bill mandates that housing providers must provide prospective tenants with a detailed list of all applicable charges, including a clear explanation of how utility charges are calculated, at the application stage and throughout their tenancy. Additionally, tenants will have the right to inspect water submetering equipment and request copies of utility bills from their housing providers. If housing providers fail to comply with these disclosure requirements, utility charges will be deemed unenforceable. The bill also extends the right for tenants to redeem utility debts before eviction, aligning these protections with existing laws regarding nonpayment of rent.

Key amendments to the Rental Housing Act of 1985 include the introduction of a "Ratio Utility Billing System" to allocate utility costs among tenants, and specific requirements for housing providers to disclose utility billing methods and charges. The bill stipulates that housing providers must provide recent utility bills, a plain language description of the allocation method, and a statement of tenants' rights regarding utility billing information. Furthermore, it establishes that no tenant can be evicted for nonpayment of utilities if they settle their debts before eviction proceedings are carried out, provided the amount owed is at least $600 and proper notice is given.