This bill amends the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act in Nebraska by introducing several key provisions aimed at protecting tenants' rights. It prohibits landlords from retaining security deposits if a rental agreement is not signed and disallows the inclusion of nondisclosure terms in rental agreements. Specifically, it adds a new provision that states tenants cannot agree to not disclose the contents of the rental agreement, thereby enhancing transparency in rental agreements.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing regulations regarding security deposits. It mandates that if a landlord receives prepaid rent or security before a rental agreement is finalized and the tenant subsequently declines to enter into the agreement, the landlord must return the prepaid amount. The bill also stipulates that if a landlord fails to comply with these requirements, tenants may recover their funds along with court costs and attorney's fees, and potentially receive liquidated damages if the landlord's noncompliance is willful. Overall, these changes aim to strengthen tenant protections and ensure fair practices in rental agreements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 76-1415, 76-1416