The bill introduces a "Tenant's bill of rights" to the "Residential Landlord and Tenant Act," which includes new rights for tenants such as legal representation by a public defender in eviction cases for financially challenged tenants with children, habitability standards, the right to organize, 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 conditions for rental agreements, including the rights of tenants aged 65 or older and servicemembers to terminate leases under certain conditions, a default year-to-year lease renewal with an option for tenants to choose a different term, and a cap on rent increases at 4% per year unless the landlord justifies a higher rate.

The bill modifies the amount a tenant can spend on repairs and deduct from rent when the landlord fails to meet obligations, raising the limit from $500 to one month's rent. It sets a 20-day compliance window for landlords after tenant notification, with immediate action required in emergencies, and requires tenants to provide an itemized repair cost statement. The bill also imposes new cleanliness and pest extermination responsibilities on owners and occupants, particularly for owners of multiple dwellings who must inspect within 96 hours and begin mitigation within five business days of confirmed infestations. The bill is effective upon passage and aims to enhance tenant protections as part of a comprehensive "tenant bill of rights."

Statutes affected:
2417: 45-24.3-6