Neighbors, Nearly two years ago, our community was shaken by a violent incident at a short-term rental in my district that left one neighbor seriously injured. It was not an isolated tragedy — just years earlier, a similar incident on the Northside took the lives of two teenagers. These were preventable losses, and they demanded action.
In response, I directed the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study of short-term rental regulations across Pennsylvania. The findings were clear: this rapidly growing industry is operating without the transparency, accountability, or consistent standards needed to keep our communities safe.
For the past two years, I’ve worked alongside State Representatives Jennifer O’Mara and Mary Jo Daley to develop a commonsense, statewide framework. Our legislation, House Bill 2023, establishes baseline protections while recognizing the differences between homestays, vacation rentals, and large-scale corporate operators.
This bill would create countywide registries of short-term rental properties, require a 24/7 “person in charge” for every listing, and implement enforceable safety standards — with stronger requirements for high-volume operators.
Short-term rentals are already reshaping our neighborhoods, driving up housing costs and making it harder for longtime Pittsburghers to put down roots. This legislation is about restoring balance: protecting public safety, preserving housing access, and ensuring this industry operates responsibly in the communities it profits from.
I’m proud to have introduced this legislation in the Pennsylvania State House in mid-March, and it now awaits consideration by the House floor. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (412) 781-2750.
Be well, Lindsay Powell
