Housing Price Transparency Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Castor, Kathy [D-FL-14]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Aug 17, 2026
Bottom line
The bill requires transparency in the use of algorithmic pricing for rental housing and provides robust federal, state, and private enforcement avenues to address non-compliance.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that any person or entity using an algorithm to recommend or set prices for rental accommodations must clearly disclose that an algorithm was used to determine monthly rates. It establishes multiple enforcement mechanisms, including actions by the Federal Trade Commission, civil actions by State attorneys general, and a private right of action for individuals harmed by violations.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill is a crucial step towards addressing opaque and potentially anti-competitive practices in the housing rental market, where algorithmic pricing tools may contribute to artificially inflated rents and reduce competition. They contend that increased transparency will empower consumers and allow for greater scrutiny of pricing practices that could be harmful.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that the bill imposes an unnecessary regulatory burden on property owners and management companies, potentially stifling innovation in property management technology. They may also contend that algorithmic pricing tools are legitimate business practices designed to optimize market rates based on supply and demand, and that a disclosure requirement does not address underlying housing affordability issues.
The bill is very short and written in clear language, making it highly accessible for a reader to understand its provisions and implications within a short timeframe.
Section 1
Short Title
This section establishes the official short title of the Act as the 'Housing Price Transparency Act.' This is the name by which the law would be commonly known and cited if enacted.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that a clear and concise short title helps in public discourse and legal referencing, making the bill's purpose more accessible.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the short title of a bill, as it is a standard legislative practice.
Tradeoffs
None apparent for this provision.
Section 2(a)
Requirement to Disclose Algorithmic Price Fixing
This provision mandates that any individual or entity utilizing an algorithm to suggest or establish rental prices for housing accommodations must explicitly inform prospective renters that an algorithm was used to determine the monthly rates. The disclosure must be clear, ensuring consumers are aware of the automated pricing method.
Section 2(b)
Enforcement by Federal Trade Commission
This section grants the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the authority to enforce the disclosure requirement. Any violation of the disclosure mandate or related regulations will be treated as an unfair or deceptive act or practice under the Federal Trade Commission Act, giving the FTC its full range of investigative and enforcement powers, including penalties.
Section 2(c)
Actions by States
This provision empowers State attorneys general, or other authorized State officials or agencies, to bring civil actions on behalf of their residents in State courts. They can seek injunctions, enforce compliance, obtain damages or restitution, and pursue other legal and equitable relief for violations of the disclosure requirement. States must notify the FTC before filing an action, and the FTC has the right to intervene. However, a State cannot bring an action if a Federal action is already pending against the same defendant for the same violation.
Section 2(d)
Private Right of Action
This section grants individuals who have been harmed by a violation of the algorithmic pricing disclosure requirement the right to bring a civil action in an appropriate U.S. district court. Injured persons can seek an injunction to stop the violation, recover actual monetary losses, or receive statutory damages of at least $10,000 per violation (whichever is greater). Prevailing plaintiffs are also entitled to recover court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. Actions must be commenced within 2 years of discovering the violation, and this remedy is in addition to any other available remedies.
Section 2(e)
Definitions
This section defines two key terms used throughout the Act: 'Commission' refers to the Federal Trade Commission. 'Pricing algorithm' is broadly defined as any computational process, including those derived from machine learning or other artificial intelligence techniques, that processes data to recommend or set a price or commercial term.