The Indiana Senate has narrowly backed a proposal attempting to navigate regulations on short-term rentals amid a changing market that now includes companies like Airbnb.
House Bill 1133 would ban municipalities from prohibiting or regulating Airbnb-style, short-term rentals from their communities.
Senators voted 27-20 in favor of the bill Thursday. The House approved a different version last month, and more changes could be made before a final agreement is reached.
Bill sponsor Sen. Randy Head said the Senate proposal attempts to allow people to profit off of investments by renting properties out on Airbnb. The Logansport Republican said local officials shouldn't be able to stamp out those rights.
Sen. Karen Tallian, D-Portage, was among opponents who argue the bill could reduce the collection of local hotel taxes. She said the measure also will undo zoning ordinances that have been in place for years.
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