Bill > HB72

This bill, titled "Providing for tenants' rights in cases of violence," amends the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 to introduce new protections for tenants who are victims of or have household members who are victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, stalking, or other serious crimes. Key provisions include allowing an "eligible tenant" – defined as a tenant who is a victim, has a victimized household member, or has a victimized immediate family member under specific circumstances – to terminate their lease early without penalty by providing proper notice and documentation, such as a court order, a letter from a professional, or a police report. The bill also grants eligible tenants the right to request their landlord change or rekey the locks for their safety, or to do so themselves if the landlord fails to act promptly, and requires landlords to maintain the confidentiality of information related to these situations. Furthermore, landlords are prohibited from retaliating against tenants for exercising these rights, such as by charging fees, increasing rent, or terminating the lease, and face penalties for willful violations. These new provisions will apply to leases entered into or extended after the bill's effective date, which is 180 days after enactment.