The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1304, aims to protect tenants from retaliation by landlords following their participation in fair rent commission proceedings. The bill amends Section 7-148d of the general statutes, which currently outlines the powers of the commission regarding excessive rental charges and compliance with health and safety regulations. The new language specifies that if a tenant prevails in a commission proceeding, any retaliatory actions taken by the landlord within six months of the tenant's victory are prohibited. The commission is empowered to order the landlord to cease such retaliatory conduct.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that allow the commission to hold rent payments in escrow if a housing accommodation is found to be non-compliant with relevant ordinances or regulations. This ensures that tenants are not financially penalized while waiting for necessary repairs or changes to be made by the landlord. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to enhance tenant protections in housing disputes.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-148d