The bill introduces a "Tenant’s Bill of Rights" to the "Residential Landlord and Tenant Act," granting tenants various rights such as the right to be informed about public defender availability in eviction cases, habitability, organization without harassment, a first right of refusal to purchase the property, protection against discrimination, and protection from eviction without just cause. It also amends sections 34-18-15 and 34-18-30 to establish a default year-to-year lease renewal, cap rent increases at 4% per year unless justified by the landlord, increase the tenant self-help repair threshold to $500, and provide lease termination provisions for tenants over 65 or entering certain housing, and for servicemembers under specific conditions.

The bill further amends housing maintenance and occupancy laws, allowing tenants to make necessary repairs and deduct costs from rent under certain conditions, such as landlord inaction after notification and compliance with state and local codes. It outlines the responsibilities of owners and occupants in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation, including new requirements for owners to mitigate insect infestations in multiple dwellings by obtaining an inspection within 96 hours and starting mitigation within five business days of confirmation. The bill will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
911: 45-24.3-6