In the last week, three new tenant-rights bills that would limit evictions have been introduced into the Council legislative process: two by Councilmember Sawant, and one jointly by Councilmembers Lewis and Morales.
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State Supreme Court finds “First in Time” tenant ordinance constitutional, clears path for “Fair Chance Housing” ordinance
In two landmark rulings this morning, the Washington State Supreme Court ruled in favor of the City of Seattle in two lawsuits related to the city’s “First in Time” and “Fair Chance Housing” tenant protect ordinances.
Continue readingFirst in Time tenant-rights ordinance headed to the state Supreme Court
Last week the Washington State Supreme Court agreed to hear an appeal of a lower court ruling on the city’s “First in time” ordinance that requires landlords to accept the first qualified tenant who applies for a vacant rental unit.
Continue readingJudge strikes down “first in time” tenant protection law
Today King County Superior Court Judge Suzanne Parisien issued a ruling striking down the city’s “first in time” tenant protection ordinance.
Continue readingRestricting move-in fees: a messy bill
The principle of restricting abusive practices by landlords in charging excessive move-in fees is great. In practice, it’s messy, and the proposed ordinance to do just that demonstrates that messiness in its full glory. This afternoon, Council members Sawant and Herbold will hold a hearing to consider their proposed ordinance, the latest installment in what Sawant calls a “tenant’s bill of rights.”
Continue readingNew tenant protections passed into law today
This afternoon the City Council passed an ordinance to create new protections for tenants from discriminatory practices by landlords.
Continue readingIt’s been a good week for Seattle tenants
Things are looking up this week for renters in Seattle this week, thanks to Mayor Murray and Council member Kshama Sawant.
Continue readingNews roundup: SODO Arena, and yeah, some other stuff
Yesterday’s committee hearing on the SODO Arena street vacation dominates the news this morning.
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