The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1304, aims to protect tenants from retaliation by landlords following a successful outcome in a fair rent commission proceeding. 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 commission finds that a landlord has retaliated against a tenant for either complaining to the commission or prevailing in a proceeding within six months of that victory, the commission can order the landlord to cease such retaliatory actions.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the commission to hold rent payments in escrow if a housing accommodation is found to be non-compliant with relevant ordinances or regulations. This change is intended to enhance tenant protections and ensure that landlords cannot penalize tenants for asserting their rights in fair rent commission proceedings. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-148d