(AP) — The Indiana Legislature could again consider prohibiting cities and towns from putting restrictions on short-term rental services like Airbnb.
A legislative study panel has recommended that lawmakers block local governments from adopting what it calls “any undue restrictions” on using someone’s primary residence as a short-term rental.
A bill for such a ban narrowly failed during this year’s legislative session and the issue could be debated when state lawmakers start a new session in January.
Republican Sen. Mark Messmer of Jasper says his intention is to let municipalities keep existing ordinances reasonably limiting short-term rentals, particularly in Lake Michigan beach towns.
Sen. Tim Lanane of Anderson argues local governments should be allowed to prevent largely unregulated hotels from existing in residential neighborhoods.