PROHIBITING SALE AND USE OF ALGORITHMIC DEVICES FOR RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PRICES [C. BYERS, J. ERICKSON, Y. QUARKER, A. LOVANO, J. DEL TORO, J. CARTER]
Staff Direction • 2025-08-04 • Item F.7 • Tracking ID DIR-2025-66F3D7
Tracking ID: DIR-2025-66F3D7
Full tracking history, completion evidence, and related council actions available on the main site.
Plain language summary
This proposal aims to prohibit the use of algorithmic devices for setting residential rental prices in West Hollywood. By potentially eliminating these tools, the city seeks to prevent automated systems from driving up rental costs, which could help stabilize housing affordability for renters. The ordinance is still in the drafting phase, with no immediate fiscal impact on taxpayers as it involves policy development rather than direct expenditure.
Due: 2025-11-02
What this means to you
If you are a renter in West Hollywood, this ordinance could help keep your rent from increasing due to algorithm-driven pricing strategies that landlords might use to maximize profits. For landlords, this means they may need to rely on traditional methods for setting rental prices, which could involve more manual market analysis. The ordinance aims to maintain fair rental practices and prevent sudden rent hikes driven by automated systems.