The Eviction Reform Amendment Act of 2025 proposes several amendments to the District of Columbia's eviction laws. It allows the Court to exercise discretion in dismissing complaints that lack sufficient facts or documentation, as indicated by the change from "the Court shall dismiss the complaint" to "the Court may, in its discretion...dismiss the complaint." Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that entitles plaintiffs in eviction cases for nonpayment of rent to request a protective order requiring defendants to deposit rent into the Court's registry during the proceedings. This protective order can be challenged by the defendant based on alleged miscalculations of rent or property maintenance violations.
Furthermore, the bill amends the Rental Housing Act of 1985 to permit expedited evictions for tenants involved in violent criminal activity, allowing housing providers to serve a 10-day notice to vacate and file for possession in court. The Court is required to expedite hearings within 20 days of filing. The legislation also outlines defenses for tenants, including being a victim of intrafamily offenses or demonstrating that they were unaware of the criminal activity occurring on the premises. Overall, the bill aims to balance the rights of tenants and housing providers while addressing issues related to nonpayment of rent and criminal activity in rental units.