Bill > H7762

This bill, titled the "Fair Chance in Housing Credit Reports Act," establishes new standards for how landlords, referred to as "housing providers," can use credit history when evaluating rental applications for "rental dwelling units" (apartments or houses for rent, excluding units in owner-occupied buildings with three or fewer units). Specifically, landlords cannot consider any credit history older than three years from the application date. If a rental application is denied based on credit history within this three-year period, the landlord must provide the applicant with a written notice explaining the reason for denial within 20 days. The bill also outlines civil liabilities for violations, including penalties of up to $1,000 for a first offense, $5,000 for a second, and $10,000 for subsequent offenses, with enforcement handled by the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights. Furthermore, it prohibits retaliation against individuals who exercise their rights under this act or participate in related investigations.

Justice

https://status.rilegislature.gov/