Title
AN ORDINANCE relating to prohibiting algorithmic rent fixing; and adding a new chapter to K.C.C. Title 12.
Body
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF KING COUNTY:
SECTION 1. Sections 2 through 6 of this ordinance should constitute a new chapter in K.C.C. Title 12.
NEW SECTION. SECTION 2. The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
A. "Coordinating services" means a service provider:
1. Collecting historical, anticipated, or contemporary prices, price changes, supply levels, occupancy rates, or lease or rental contract termination and renewal dates of residential dwelling units from two or more landlords, from private databases, or from public databases; and
2. Analyzing or processing the information described in subsection A.1. of this section through the use of a system or software that utilizes an algorithmic or other automated process to provide recommendations regarding rental prices, lease renewal terms, or occupancy levels to more than one landlord. "Coordinating services" does not include publishing rental price estimates that are solely based on publicly available information; are equally available to all members of the public; and do not require a contract or agreement to obtain.
B. "Dwelling unit" has the same meaning as "dwelling unit" in K.C.C. 12.25.010.
C. "Landlord" has the same meaning as "landlord" in K.C.C. 12.25.010.
D. "Person" means an individual, firm, corporation, association, governmental entity, or partnership and its agents or assigns.
E. "Service provider" means a person that performs a coordinating service. NEW SECTION. SECTION 3.
A. It is a violation of this chapter for two or more landlords to enter into an agreement, including but not limited to written, verbal, or inferred from conduct, to establish rental prices, consistent with federal law.
B. It is a violation of this chapter for a landlord, in or affecting commerce, to contract with...
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