This bill establishes new protections for tenants who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual violence, or stalking, allowing them to terminate their rental agreements without penalty under certain conditions. Specifically, it prohibits landlords from evicting tenants or terminating rental agreements based on incidents of violence where the tenant or their minor child is the victim. The bill also specifies that rental agreements cannot include provisions that deem early termination due to such incidents as a breach. Tenants wishing to terminate their agreements must provide written notice and appropriate documentation to the landlord, and they are not required to forfeit any deposits or advance rent paid.
Additionally, the bill mandates that landlords must change the locks of a dwelling unit within 24 hours if requested by a tenant who is a victim of violence. If the landlord fails to do so, the tenant may change the locks themselves. The bill also ensures that all information related to the tenant's status as a victim remains confidential and prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants based on their victim status. Violations of these provisions by landlords can result in civil liability, including punitive damages. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.