If enacted, this bill would establish a new Rental Assistance Program under the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) by adding Section 41-1971 to Title 41, Chapter 14, Article 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. The bill outlines specific eligibility requirements for tenants, including having at least one child under eighteen, residing in the rental home for at least twelve months, and not being more than two months behind on rent. It also stipulates that tenants are not required to be delinquent to apply and can receive assistance for upcoming rental payments. The bill mandates that DES approve or deny applications within five business days and provides for direct payments to landlords, with certain conditions for tenants if landlords refuse to accept these payments.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $5,000,000 from the state general fund for the program in fiscal year 2026-2027 and exempts this appropriation from lapsing provisions. It includes provisions for financial literacy classes for tenants and prohibits landlords from evicting tenants for nonpayment of rent for months covered by rental assistance payments. Overall, the bill aims to provide structured support for tenants facing temporary financial emergencies while ensuring that landlords are compensated for rental assistance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1971