Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/CREDIT: Washington State Legislature

OLYMPIA… Yesterday, Sen. Matt Boehnke voiced serious concerns following the Senate majority’s approval of House Bill 1217, which would cap annual rent increases at 10%.

Prior to its passage, the rent-increase cap was lifted from the 7% in the bill adopted by the House, which means HB 1217 must return to that chamber for consideration of the changes.

Boehnke warned that any cap in the bill, while presented as a solution to rising housing costs, could backfire by destabilizing the rental market and discouraging housing development.

Boehnke, R-Kennewick, issued this statement following the Senate vote:

“This bill is built on the wrong premise. Limiting rent increases might sound helpful on the surface, but in practice, it discourages investment in new housing and puts small property owners in an impossible position.

“If the goal is to make housing more affordable, we need to increase the number of homes available, not pile on restrictions that make it harder to provide them. In other cities, heavy-handed policies like this led to fewer rentals and a deteriorating housing supply.

“The small landlords aren’t large corporate owners holding massive portfolios. These residents saved, invested, and are now punished for trying to provide housing. They’re being asked to absorb rising property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs without the ability to adjust rent accordingly. That is not sustainable.

“Washington needs more housing, less red tape, and policies supporting tenants and responsible landlords. This bill may satisfy specific interest groups, but it does nothing to solve the root of the problem. I remain committed to advancing legislation encouraging construction, supporting renters, and building a better future for all Washingtonians.”

The 2025 legislative session is scheduled to adjourn Sunday, April 27.

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