The bill amends Section 34-18-58 of the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to establish a statewide mandatory rental registry specifically for landlords leasing residential properties constructed prior to 1978. Landlords are required to register various information with the Department of Health, including their names, contact details, and information about property managers. Additionally, landlords must provide a valid certificate of conformance for lead hazard mitigation or evidence of exemption. The bill also mandates the creation of a publicly accessible online database containing certain registered information, with a deadline for registration set for September 1, 2025, and annual re-registration thereafter.

Significantly, the bill removes the previous requirement that landlords must comply with registration before initiating eviction proceedings for nonpayment of rent. It also establishes civil penalties for non-compliance with the registration requirements, which will not take effect until October 1, 2025. The penalties collected will be deposited into a restricted account for the purpose of administering the provisions of the bill and supporting lead hazard mitigation efforts. Overall, the bill aims to enhance tenant safety and health by ensuring that landlords maintain proper registration and compliance with lead hazard regulations.