This story was supported with funds from Spotlight DC—Capital City Fund for Investigative Journalism.

As the D.C. Council is set to vote on the Rebalancing Expectations for Neighbors, Tenants, and Landlords (RENTAL) Act, a sweeping housing law reform bill with far-reaching implications for District tenants, recent studies and reports illustrate the sharp divide between reliable data and the narrative promoted by industry-backed advocacy groups.

The bill, praised by developer groups and introduced by Mayor Muriel Bowser, has raised concerns among tenants, housing advocates, and some affordable housing providers, who argue it would eliminate tenant protections based on little reliable data.

Of particular concern are changes to eviction due process safeguards and the proposed exemptions to

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