Landlord Accountability Act: New Tenant Rights and Penalties for Property Owners
This act aims to protect tenants from discrimination based on their source of income, including housing vouchers. It introduces penalties for landlords who intentionally neglect properties or leave them vacant, and increases support for tenants in resolving housing issues. Additionally, landlords may receive tax credits for maintaining low-income housing.
Key points
Prohibition of Tenant Discrimination: Landlords cannot refuse to rent due to the use of housing vouchers (e.g., Section 8), benefits, alimony, or other legal income sources.
Penalties for Property Neglect: Landlords who intentionally degrade housing units to disqualify them from assistance programs may face a $100,000 fine per action, and tenants can seek damages.
Penalties for Vacant Units: Landlords who intentionally leave multifamily housing units vacant for over 60 days may be fined $100,000 for every 30 days.
Tenant Support: Increased staffing for the complaint hotline and a new program for resolving housing complaints, including mediation. Complaint information will be publicly disclosed.
Tax Credits for Landlords: Landlords who maintain low-income housing and promptly address complaints may receive an annual tax credit of up to $500,000.
Mandatory Display of Tenant Rights: Landlords must conspicuously display notices of tenant rights and complaint line phone numbers, in English and Spanish.
Tenant Harassment Prevention Programs: Grants will be available for organizations assisting tenants against landlord harassment, including legal aid and education.
Introduced
Citizen Poll