Bill > HB1542

This bill establishes new rights for residents of senior independent housing, which is defined as housing for individuals 55 and older who are independent and do not require assistance with daily living, excluding facilities like assisted living or nursing homes. The bill, which adds a new chapter to Title 70 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), grants residents the right to be free from interference and reprisal from providers, to be treated with respect, to install safety devices in their units, to organize and hold resident meetings, to receive timely responses from management for emergencies, and to provide anonymous feedback. Importantly, violations of these rights by senior independent housing providers are considered unfair or deceptive practices under the state's Consumer Protection Act (chapter 19.86 RCW), meaning they can be subject to legal action. The Department of Commerce is identified as the "Department" for the purposes of this chapter.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1542&Year=2025&Initiative=false