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 prospective tenants with written information regarding the screening process, 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 applicants whether they will accept reusable screening reports and cannot charge application fees if they do. The bill also prohibits landlords from using a prospective tenant's credit score as the sole factor for lease eligibility and mandates that landlords make decisions on applications within 14 days.
Furthermore, the bill establishes specific procedures for landlords when taking adverse actions against applicants, including providing written notice and the opportunity for the applicant to discuss the decision. It emphasizes the importance of considering a tenant's current ability to pay rent and suitability for tenancy while requiring landlords to process 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: House Introduced Bill: 554.601