The bill amends the 1972 PA 348, which regulates landlord-tenant relationships, by introducing new provisions aimed at enhancing transparency and fairness in the rental application process. Key insertions include the requirement for landlords to provide written notices to prospective tenants regarding the information accessed for screening, criteria for application denial, and the right to obtain a free copy of any consumer report used in the decision-making process. Additionally, landlords must inform prospective tenants if they will accept reusable screening reports and cannot charge application fees if they do so. The bill also prohibits landlords from using credit scores or past judicial actions without findings of liability as deciding factors in rental eligibility.

Furthermore, the bill establishes procedures for landlords to follow when taking adverse actions against prospective tenants, including providing written notices detailing the reasons for denial and allowing tenants the opportunity to discuss and rebut the decision. It mandates that landlords consider a prospective tenant's current ability to pay rent and suitability for tenancy, and requires them to process rental applications in the order they are received. These changes aim to create a more equitable rental market and protect the rights of prospective tenants.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 554.601