The slow adoption of fair rent commissions in various towns across Connecticut, as mandated by a 2022 state law, presents a concerning disparity in tenants' access to addressing rent increases. While the law required towns with over 25,000 residents to establish these commissions, the progress has been uneven, with some towns missing the deadline, while others have passed ordinances without convening the commissions.

Fair rent commissions play a crucial role in addressing resident complaints about rising rents and other landlord-tenant issues, with the power to conduct investigations and issue orders. Given the rapidly escalating rents and limited housing options in the state, these commissions have become increasingly important.

The attention they're receiving is also fueled by the growing tenant union movement, which is organizing renters and raising awareness about these commissions. While most towns have been willing to pass ordinances, the failure to submit them to the Department of Housing, thus excluding them from the state's online information, indicates the need for better coordination.

Overall, this situation underscores the importance of ensuring equitable access to avenues for addressing rent-related concerns, especially in a challenging housing market.

Monk, G (2023), https://www.courant.com/2023/09/16/more-ct-towns-are-slowly-adopting-fair-rent-commissions-leaving-tenants-with-uneven-access-to-protest-rent-increases/