Rules Committee recommends 'Union at Home' tenant-organizing ordinance to full board

SAN FRANCISCO — The Rules Committee on Monday voted to forward an ordinance to the full Board of Supervisors that would create a citywide right for residential tenants to organize, require certain landlords to recognize tenant associations and confer in good faith, and allow rent-board remedies if landlords fail to participate.

Chair Aaron Peskin said the "union at home" ordinance aims to improve communication between tenants and landlords and address habitability and disruption issues intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal would apply to buildings with five or more rental units and allow tenants to certify associations at the rent board.

Supporters included tenant-advocacy and labor groups. Molly Goldberg of the San Francisco Anti-Displacement Coalition said tenant organizing helps residents stay in their homes by addressing problems collectively. AFSCME Local 3299, Jobs with Justice and the Veritas Tenants Association urged committee approval, arguing tenant unions provide leverage to negotiate habitability and harassment issues.

Supervisor Peskin offered non-substantive clarifying amendments; the committee approved sending the item to the full board with recommendation. The full board will take up the ordinance for further debate and possible adoption.