As a resident of Newark, NJ, I have personally witnessed the devastating impact of landlords colluding to artificially inflate rental prices or collectively refuse certain tenants. This practice perpetuates a cycle of instability and homelessness for our residents and creates barriers to affordable housing. It is particularly damaging for low-income individuals and families who are squeezed out of the market.

In an era where technology is increasingly used to facilitate such practices, we must take action against algorithms that enable this collusion. Algorithms can be manipulated by landlords to control rental prices, exacerbating the city's housing crisis.

According to a 2019 study by Rutgers University-Newark's Center on Law, Inequality & Metropolitan Equity (CLiME), Newark has one of the highest eviction rates in the country with approximately 20% of renters facing eviction each year. This situation is worsened when algorithms are used as tools for price manipulation and tenant selection.

We call on lawmakers in Newark and at the state level in New Jersey to enact legislation and support bill S.3692 that prevents such misuse of technology in our housing market introduced by United States Senator, Ronald L. Wyden. We need laws that ensure transparency in how rental prices are set and who gets access to available units. 

Addressing collusion among landlords is crucial for fostering a more equitable housing landscape, where all Newark residents have access to safe, affordable homes, free from exploitation and discrimination.

By signing this petition, you will help us send a clear message that we will not tolerate practices that exacerbate our city's housing crisis. Stand with us against algorithmic facilitation of rental inflation today!

Write to your legislator directly? Here's how:

https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/118/s3692/comment