Gov. Sherrill signs FAIR Act into law, protecting renters from algorithmic rent setting

Key points

• The FAIR Act explicitly regulates algorithmic rent-setting practices to prevent artificial inflation of housing costs
• The legislation was sponsored by four New Jersey Assembly members and signed into law by Governor Sherrill in July 2026
• The law provides renters with additional legal protections against automated pricing systems used by landlords
• Algorithmic pricing has become a controversial practice in the rental market, with critics arguing it artificially drives up housing costs
• This is part of broader efforts to address New Jersey's housing affordability crisis

FAQ

What is the FAIR Act and why was it passed?

The Forbidding the Algorithmic Inflation of Rent (FAIR) Act regulates the use of algorithms in setting rental prices. It was passed to protect renters from algorithmic practices that artificially inflate housing costs, addressing concerns that automated pricing systems have contributed to the state's housing affordability challenges.

When did the FAIR Act become law in New Jersey?

Governor Phil Murphy signed the FAIR Act into law on July 20, 2026.

Who sponsored this legislation?

The FAIR Act (Bill A3497) was sponsored by state Assembly members Yvonne Lopez, Margie Donlon, Chigozie Onyema, and Katie Brennan.

How does the FAIR Act protect renters?

The law explicitly regulates algorithmic rent-setting practices used by landlords and property management companies, preventing them from using automated systems to artificially inflate rental prices beyond market rates.