Bill > HB4993

This bill amends Michigan's landlord-tenant law to expand and clarify the process by which tenants who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking can terminate their rental agreements early. The bill provides multiple ways for tenants to submit notice to their landlords, including certified mail, email, personal delivery, electronic portals, and other previously established communication methods. To qualify for early lease termination, tenants must provide documentation of their reasonable apprehension of danger, which can include personal protection orders, probation orders, police reports, or a verified report from a qualified third party such as a counselor, health professional, mental health professional, or clergy member. The bill specifies that a tenant can be released from rental obligations no later than 15 days after submitting notice, though prepaid rent and security deposits may still be retained by the landlord. The legislation also protects tenants' privacy by preventing landlords from disclosing forwarding address information to potential perpetrators and ensures that if multiple tenants are on a lease, the release of one tenant does not automatically release the others from their obligations. This amendment provides additional legal protections for tenants experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, giving them more flexibility to escape potentially dangerous living situations.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4993