Bill > SF2421

This bill introduces several key provisions to protect tenants' rights and ensure fair treatment by landlords. First, it establishes requirements for digital rent payment platforms, mandating that landlords provide alternative payment methods if a tenant cannot use the digital platform due to physical, technological, or financial barriers (such as lack of a bank account or credit card). Landlords cannot charge fees for these alternative payment methods and are prohibited from taking adverse actions like filing for eviction or assessing late fees if payment is delayed due to platform unavailability. The bill also strengthens protections for victims by explicitly preventing landlords from disclosing sensitive information about a tenant's status or location, even if the tenant has previously signed a release form, and maintains statutory damages of $2,000 plus attorney fees for violations. Additionally, the bill limits how landlords can bill tenants for utility services, requiring that they bill at or below the rate charged by utility providers and provide utility bill documentation upon tenant request. These provisions aim to create more equitable and transparent rental practices, with the digital platform requirements becoming effective August 1, 2025, and the other provisions taking effect immediately after final enactment.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2421&ssn=0&y=2025