Washington, DC — the local government — is generally progressive. However, money talks and increasingly renters have no other option but to walk, and are being forced out of the city. The latest attack on affordible housing in the District will be voted on in the DC Council on Tuesday, March 6. Bill 22-315 would exempt one and two unit apartments and condos from TOPA — the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act. The bill would dramatically upset the balance of rights and responsibilities in favor of landlords in Washington, DC. It is the top priority of the DC Association of Realtors and it could have been written by Donald Trump. Essentially it removes all protections for DC renters (in single family homes and many 2 unit buildings) when thier landlord wants to kick them out and sell or convert the building.
Rents have skyrocketed in DC. My rent has more than doubled over the past 6 years. Rents for 2 bedrooms in one new Ward 6 development average $6,700 per month for a 2 bedroom apartment. The Council has also taken no action about the easy eviction loophole.
If you are a renter in DC please check this out and contact your Councilmembers. Do just a little research on Bill 22-315, the only home you save may be your own. It is a stealth attack on renters — no tenant testified on the nearly secret public hearing on the bill. So far, DC Councilmembers have only heard from realtors, lawyers and landlords. They need to table this bill and consider other stakeholders.
This bill has national implications. In Trump’s America you need a very high paid job to live in Washington, DC. DC Councilmembers make about $150K per year. If DC becomes like Manhatten, only the top 1% will be able to live and work here.