Many Bronx residents who live in rent-controlled and rent-stabilized apartments may face steep hikes when the current laws expire in April. However, the City Council and housing advocates are taking action to renew rent laws in the city and the Bronx.

The City Council is introducing legislation to extend rent stabilization laws until 2009. Some members are also calling on the state to protect tenants by controlling rents. They say a recent housing vacancy survey shows rent continues to rise, but tenants? salaries are decreasing. But the survey also shows the city?s vacancy rate is not high enough to justify the continuation of rent control.

Despite the survey results, the City Council says rent control is warranted. Members will continue to rally for the renewal of the rent laws.