Renters Rebate for California Tenants Proposed

by Tenants Together‚ Apr. 29‚ 2014
(originally appeared in BeyonChron.org)

A bill to provide for a renters’ rebate for low-income California tenants passed a key committee in Sacramento. Co-sponsored by Tenants Together, the bill addresses a central demand of the Renters’ Day of Action held in Sacramento earlier this year. The bill is co-authored by Assembly Members Phil Ting (D – San Francisco) and Tom Daly (D – Anaheim).

The bill comes on the heels of a report by the California Housing Partnership showing that rents surged 20% statewide from 2000-2012, while median income fell by 8%. Cost-burdened renters are struggling and need help. At the hearing, speakers emphasized the need for greater equity, as homeowners currently receive a range of tax advantages, while renters receive virtually nothing.