Bill > HF2283

This bill establishes the Minnesota Fair Chance Access to Housing Act, which aims to prevent housing discrimination based on criminal history. The law creates a standardized process for rental applications that limits how and when landlords can consider an applicant's criminal record. Specifically, landlords cannot print advertisements or statements suggesting automatic denial based on criminal history, and they must disclose upfront whether criminal background checks are part of their screening process. During the initial application stage, criminal records cannot be evaluated. After an applicant meets all other application criteria and receives a conditional offer, landlords may only consider specific types of criminal convictions, such as arson, human trafficking, and certain sexual offenses. If a landlord wants to withdraw a conditional offer based on criminal history, they must conduct an individualized assessment, notify the applicant, and allow the applicant to provide mitigating evidence about their rehabilitation. The assessment must consider factors like the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and potential impact on safety. If a conditional offer is withdrawn, the landlord must provide a written explanation and return any application fees. The law applies to most residential rental properties, with exemptions for small, owner-occupied buildings, and includes penalties for violations ranging from $500 to $2,000 depending on the size of the property.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2283&ssn=0&y=2025