Legislation to Save Coloradans Money by Cracking Down on Rent Algorithms Passes Senate
HB25-1004 would prohibit landlords from using price-fixing software
DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed legislation that would bring down costs for Coloradans by cracking down on rent algorithms that drive up housing prices.
HB25-1004, sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, would save Coloradans money on housing by prohibiting the use, sale, and distribution of software that facilitates coordinated rental pricing. Violations would be considered price fixing under the Colorado Antitrust Act.
“While our communities are struggling to pay their rent, keep a roof over their heads, and provide for their families, corporate landlords are using software to raise rents for everyone,” said Gonzales. “Colorado renters deserve better. This bill would clarify the law to prohibit corporate landlords from illegal price fixing that lines their own pockets at the expense of hardworking Colorado families.”
“Renters across the state – including in Pueblo – are being squeezed by rising rents and the growing presence of corporate landlords who drive up prices and displace small, local owners,” said Hinrichsen. “Price fixing is already illegal, but new software is allowing corporations to skirt the law and coordinate pricing away from the public eye. This bill modernizes Colorado law to keep pace with new technology and helps ensure rental housing stays affordable for our communities.”
A recent report found that coordinated rents from algorithmic pricing increase rent prices by $136 per month for Denver renters, or close to $1,600 per year.
In January 2025, Colorado joined a federal lawsuit to sue six of the largest landlords in the US for participating in algorithmic pricing schemes that harm renters. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser joined another federal lawsuit in August 2024 against RealPage, Inc. for allegedly using illegal agreements with landlords to carry out a price-fixing scheme that has cost Coloradans millions of dollars in rent payments.
HB25-1004 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE.