Substitute House Bill No. 5360 aims to enhance protections for tenants who are victims of domestic violence by prohibiting landlords from denying rental applications based on the applicants' credit history. The bill introduces new legal language that allows applicants to establish their status as domestic violence victims through various forms of documentation, including letters from counselors, police reports, or orders of protection. Additionally, it mandates that landlords who violate this provision must compensate the applicant for actual damages, which includes any application fees or deposits paid, as well as attorney's fees.

The bill also modifies existing regulations regarding tenant screening reports. It prohibits landlords from charging any fees for processing rental applications, except for specific charges such as security deposits or fees for tenant screening reports, which are capped at fifty dollars plus adjustments based on the consumer price index. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2026. Overall, the bill seeks to create a more equitable rental process for domestic violence victims while ensuring landlords have clear guidelines on tenant screening practices.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
HSG Joint Favorable:
File No. 112: