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

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Algorithmic Rent Pricing Ban

This bill would make it illegal for landlords in Rhode Island to use algorithmic pricing software or tools to set the rent they charge residential tenants. Algorithmic pricing refers to computer programs that automatically analyze large amounts of market data — such as rental rates across a city or region — to suggest or set prices. These tools have become increasingly common in the property management industry, particularly among larger landlords and property management companies.

The bill affects both landlords and renters across Rhode Island. Landlords who currently use or are considering using these automated pricing tools would be prohibited from doing so when determining what to charge tenants for housing. Renters could potentially benefit if supporters are correct that these tools drive up rental prices by coordinating market rates across multiple property owners. Landlords, on the other hand, would need to rely on other methods — such as their own research or judgment — to set rent prices.

This legislation is currently in its early stages, having been introduced and referred to the Senate Committee on Housing and Municipal Government, where lawmakers will decide whether to advance it further. Similar debates are happening in other states and at the federal level, as algorithmic pricing in the rental housing market has drawn increased scrutiny in recent years. The bill does not address other aspects of the landlord-tenant relationship — its focus is specifically and solely on how rental prices are determined.