This bill amends the "Truth-in-Renting Act" by increasing the penalty for landlords who violate its provisions from $100 to $1,000 for each offense. The act requires landlords to provide tenants with a guidance document outlining their rights and responsibilities, prohibits mandatory electronic payments, mandates receipts for cash payments, and requires landlords to accept rent payments within three business days following an eviction order lockout. The bill aims to enhance tenant protections by imposing stricter penalties on landlords who fail to comply with these regulations.

Additionally, the bill allows tenants to recover reasonable attorneys' fees, court costs, expenses for expert witnesses, and other related fees incurred while proving a violation of the "Truth-in-Renting Act." The enforcement of these penalties will be conducted through summary proceedings, and jurisdiction will lie with the Superior Court, Law Division, Special Civil Part in the county where the rental premises are located. This legislative change is intended to strengthen tenant rights and ensure compliance among landlords.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 46:8-47