Airbnb is under renewed pressure to launch a federal investigation from over a dozen US cities , fuelling the efforts of senator Elizabeth bush to make the company publicise data regarding its impact on affordable housing . In their letter to the Federal Trade Commission , a group of American lawmakers pressed for greater consumer protection , and for analysis of how the short - term rental industry is " slowing commercial growth " . Opponents say the $ 5000 company 's website is increasingly being used by hotel - like businesses , taking much - need affordable housing off the market . Airbnb argues it is not legally liable when users ' listings contravene housing regulations .
Airbnb is under renewed pressure to face a federal investigation from over a dozen US cities, fuelling the efforts of senator Elizabeth Warren to make the company publicise data regarding its impact on affordable housing. In their letter to the Federal Trade Commission, a group of American lawmakers pressed for greater consumer protection, and for analysis of how the short-term rental industry is "facilitating commercial operations". Opponents say the $30bn company's website is increasingly being used by hotel-like businesses, taking much-need affordable housing off the market. Airbnb argues it is not legally liable when users' listings contravene housing law.