Residential Leases - Use of Algorithmic Device by Landlord to Determine Rent - Prohibition

SB 609 prohibits Maryland landlords from using algorithms that analyze competitors' rent prices to set or adjust residential rent. It specifically bans tools that rely on "nonpublic competitor data," such as actual rent amounts, occupancy rates, or lease dates from other landlords. The law applies only to new or renewed leases after October 1, 2025, and violations would be treated as unfair trade practices under Maryland’s consumer protection law. This directly affects residential landlords who currently use such technology to determine rent. The bill excludes aggregated market reports from trade associations and tools for affordable housing programs.