Bill > HB346

This bill aims to prohibit retaliation by a landlord against a tenant for taking certain actions. The bill establishes a prima-facie case of retaliation if a tenant exercises a right or remedy granted by contract or law, reports a housing code violation, or participates in a tenant organization, and the landlord then takes adverse actions such as filing a dispossessory action, depriving the tenant of the use of the premises, or increasing rent. The bill provides exceptions where landlords are not liable for retaliation, such as for rent increases due to escalation clauses or participation in government programs. If a landlord retaliates, the tenant can use it as a defense in a dispossessory action and recover a civil penalty, court costs, and attorney's fees. The bill also provides a rebuttable defense if the property has been recently inspected and certified to comply with building and housing codes.