This bill amends the "Fair Chance in Housing Act" to clarify that counties and municipalities that directly rent residential units to tenants are not considered "housing providers" under the act. Specifically, the bill introduces new language stating that the term "housing provider" does not include a county or municipality that rents residential units, and it also specifies that the definition of "rental dwelling unit" excludes any unit rented by a county or municipality.
The purpose of this amendment is to resolve ongoing disputes regarding the applicability of the "Fair Chance in Housing Act" to local government entities. The original act was established to enhance housing rights for individuals with criminal records, aiming to provide them with better access to safe and affordable housing while reducing recidivism. By explicitly stating that the act does not apply to county or municipal landlords, this bill seeks to clarify the legal framework surrounding housing rights for those with criminal histories.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 46:8-54