Rent control laws limit the amount a landlord can increase rents on existing tenants. Most states have laws that prohibit local governments from enacting rent control measures. But over 180 municipalities in the United States have rent control measures—and all of them are located in California, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C.
The state of Oregon has a statewide rent control law that limits annual rent increases to 7% plus the increase in the consumer price index.
As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2023, Rhode Island does not have statewide rent control laws that limit the amount a landlord can increase rents on existing tenants. Unlike Oregon, which has implemented a statewide rent control policy, Rhode Island allows landlords to set rental prices at market rates. However, any rent increase must be communicated to tenants in accordance with the terms of the lease and Rhode Island's landlord-tenant laws. For example, in the case of a month-to-month tenancy, the landlord must provide a 30-day notice before increasing the rent. It's important for tenants and landlords in Rhode Island to review their lease agreements and be aware of any local ordinances that may affect rent increases, although as of the last update, there were no municipalities in Rhode Island with rent control measures.