H.R.3918 - To ensure that certain short-term rentals are equipped with a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3918 mandates that short-term rentals be equipped with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. The bill empowers the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to enforce these requirements through regulations and penalties. It defines short-term rentals as properties providing lodging for less than 30 days, advertised in interstate commerce.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely increase safety in short-term rentals by ensuring the presence of life-saving devices. It will also create a regulatory burden on property owners and rental platforms. The FTC will gain additional enforcement responsibilities.
Potential Benefits
- Increased safety for renters through mandatory smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Clear standards for short-term rental properties.
- Enforcement mechanism via the Federal Trade Commission.
- Potential reduction in injuries and fatalities related to fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Could lead to increased consumer confidence in short-term rentals.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for property owners to install and maintain detectors.
- Potential for increased regulatory burden and paperwork.
- Possible impact on the affordability of short-term rentals if costs are passed on to consumers.
- Enforcement could be challenging and require additional resources for the FTC.
- May disproportionately affect smaller property owners or those with limited resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) as it regulates short-term rentals that are promoted, advertised, or marketed in interstate commerce. The enforcement mechanism through the FTC is consistent with the delegation of powers to administrative agencies. There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).