Tacoma to consider new tenant rights measure on Nov. 7 ballot

In a matter of weeks, voters in Tacoma will choose whether to approve an ambitious slate of measures intended to protect tenants from evictions and rising rents. If voters pass it, Measure 1 would bring a sweeping package of progressive policies to Tacoma, while giving policy makers statewide an idea of how these laws might or might not work across Washington.

The long-simmering fight over Measure 1 and strong renter protections is only just heating up, as supporters and opponents ready a final blitz of campaigning over a vote that could have outsized impact on statewide policies.

The measure on the Nov. 7 ballot is being brought by Tacoma For All, a coalition that includes the Tacoma Democratic Socialists of America and United Food and Commercial Workers Local 367, which worked to secure enough signatures to get the initiative on the city ballot.

Among other things, Measure 1 directs landlords to comply with tenant protection laws before they can raise rents or initiate an eviction. Evictions would be barred during cold weather or, if a tenant is a student, during the school year. If approved, landlords would have to give a six-month notice of a rent increase, and must also pay a renter relocation assistance in the case of significant increases. Also included is a cap of $10 per month on late fees.

https://crosscut.com/politics/2023/09/tacoma-consider-new-tenant-rights-measure-nov-7-ballot