Bill > H1909

This bill aims to establish legal accountability for landlords who knowingly provide residential properties for illegal drug-related activities. Specifically, the legislation prohibits property owners from renting or making available dwelling units that are used for unlawfully manufacturing, storing, distributing, or using controlled substances, with an important exception that housing authorities are not considered owners under this law. Landlords who violate this provision and knew or should have reasonably known about the drug-related activities can face significant civil penalties: $1,000 for a first offense, $5,000 for a second offense, and $10,000 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, landlords may face potential forfeiture of the property. In cases with multiple defendants, the court can apportion the penalty among violators, though each remains jointly responsible. Any penalties collected will be directed to arresting agencies to fund drug awareness education, substance abuse counseling, and youth advocacy programs. The bill seeks to discourage landlords from turning a blind eye to illegal drug activities on their properties by imposing substantial financial and legal consequences.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1909