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Proposed Rent Control Expansion Does Not Advance

January 22, 2026 0 Comment Category: Landlords and Tenants

A proposed expansion of California’s rent control framework will not move forward this legislative session after failing to advance out of committee.

The measure, AB 1157, proposed changes that would have narrowed existing exemptions and imposed stricter limits on allowable rent increases statewide. The bill did not receive sufficient support to proceed and is now considered inactive for the current session.

Overview of the Proposal

AB 1157 sought to expand the scope of rent control by applying new restrictions to housing types that are currently exempt under state law. The proposal also aimed to further limit permissible rent adjustments, which would have altered compliance obligations for a wide range of housing providers.

If enacted, the bill would have introduced significant operational and regulatory changes for property owners across California, particularly those managing smaller portfolios.

Industry Response

During the legislative process, housing organizations — including the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles (AAGLA) — raised concerns regarding the proposal’s potential impact on housing providers and rental housing operations.

These concerns focused on the practical and legal implications of expanding rent control requirements without corresponding changes to enforcement clarity or housing supply considerations.

Current Status

Because the bill did not advance out of committee, no changes to existing rent control laws will take effect under AB 1157. Current statewide rent caps and exemption rules remain in place.

Looking Ahead

Although AB 1157 is no longer active this session, similar proposals may be reintroduced in the future. Legislative efforts to expand rent control protections are ongoing, and housing providers should continue monitoring developments at the state level.

What This Means for Property Owners

With AB 1157 failing to advance:

• Existing statewide rent caps remain unchanged.

• Housing types currently exempt from rent control will remain exempt for now.

• No immediate expansion of rent control requirements will take effect under this proposal.