The Minnesota Fair Chance Access to Housing Act aims to enhance housing access for individuals with criminal records by prohibiting landlords from denying rental applications based solely on such records. The bill establishes a structured process for rental applications, requiring landlords to disclose whether criminal records will be considered before accepting application fees. During the application stage, landlords can evaluate criteria such as income and rental history but cannot consider criminal records until a conditional offer is made. If a conditional offer is issued, landlords may only consider specific criminal offenses, such as serious felonies or recent convictions, and must conduct an individualized assessment before withdrawing the offer based on criminal history.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of landlords in the event of a conditional offer withdrawal, including providing written notice to the applicant and returning any application fees. It also grants immunity to landlords who comply with the act, protecting them from liability related to renting to individuals with criminal records. The act includes provisions for enforcement by the commissioner of human rights, who can impose penalties for violations based on the number of rental units managed by the landlord. Exceptions are made for small, owner-occupied properties, ensuring that the law primarily targets larger rental operations.