Bill > HB707

This bill introduces new protections for seniors and veterans who are tenants by limiting rent increases for specific groups of individuals. The bill defines key terms such as "dwelling unit," "landlord," "rent," "rental agreement," "tenant," and "veteran," with a particular focus on tenants who are 62 years or older or veterans and whose primary income comes from Social Security or Veterans' Benefits. Under the proposed law, landlords are prohibited from increasing rent for these tenants by more than either 5% plus the Consumer Price Index change or 10% of the lowest rent charged in the previous 12 months, whichever is lower. The bill provides an affirmative defense for tenants in dispossessory (eviction) actions if a landlord charges excessive rent, and includes an automatic repeal of these provisions on January 1, 2035. The legislation will apply to residential lease agreements entered into or renewed on or after July 1, 2025, offering a targeted approach to protecting vulnerable tenants from significant rent increases while providing a temporary solution to rising housing costs for seniors and veterans.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71075