Bill > HB3386

This bill, concerning evictions and forcible entry and detainer actions, introduces a new provision allowing defendants in such cases, where minor children reside at the rental property, to request court-ordered mediation before a hearing or trial, provided a mediator is available that day and the defendant provides proof of the children's residency, such as school or vaccination records; however, this mediation request will not delay the scheduled court proceedings, and if mediation is unsuccessful or unavailable, the court can proceed with judgment as usual. The bill also makes technical changes to existing law regarding how defendants assert title or boundary disputes and clarifies that a formal answer from the defendant is not required before the trial date, and this act will take effect on November 1, 2026.