EU Unveils Rules to Help Cities Crack Down on Airbnbs

The European Commission released a proposal for the Affordable Housing Act, laying out a new method for authorities to identify areas under housing stress and a legal framework to curb short-term rental operations. The Commission said housing has become too expensive for many in the EU and the act helps public authorities protect housing affordability and availability in the most pressured areas. EU officials said housing prices have jumped over 60% since 2013. Trade groups backing the short-term rental industry raised concerns about the legislation.