WA Senate votes to set a 10% limit on annual rent increases

The Washington State Senate  recently approved a 10% cap plus the consumer price index on annual rent increases, drastically changing a House of Representatives version of the bill that had a 7% cap.

Following more than 90 minutes of floor debate, Engrossed House Bill 1217 passed on a 29-20 vote.

Sen. Sharon Shewmake, D-Bellingham, sponsored the amendment to increase the rent cap to 10%. The amendment narrowly passed, 25-24.

EHB 1217, one of the most controversial pieces of legislation introduced this session, now heads back to the House for approval of the changes made by the Senate.

Assuming the House concurs with the Senate-passed version of the bill, it will then go to Gov. Bob Ferguson’s desk for his signature into law.

This is a developing story.