Prohibits the use of algorithmic pricing by landlords to determine the amount of rent to charge a residential tenant.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would make it illegal for landlords in Rhode Island to use algorithmic pricing software to set rent prices for residential tenants. Algorithmic pricing refers to computer programs or software systems that automatically analyze data — such as market trends, competitor pricing, and local rental rates — to recommend or set rental prices. These tools are often used by large property management companies to maximize rental income across many units at once.

The bill affects landlords who rent residential properties in Rhode Island, particularly those who rely on third-party software platforms to determine what rent to charge. It also affects tenants, with the goal of protecting them from rent increases that may be driven by automated systems rather than individual landlord decisions. Supporters of similar laws in other states have argued that algorithmic pricing can contribute to rising rents across entire markets when many landlords use the same software.

Currently, this bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee and was recommended to be held for further study, meaning lawmakers are still reviewing it before deciding whether to move it forward. A hearing has been scheduled for March 2026. No final vote has taken place yet.