The bill amends the "Residential Landlord and Tenant Act" to enhance protections for tenants who are victims of abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. It introduces new definitions, such as "abuse" and "household member," and allows tenants to terminate their lease without penalty if they or a household member have experienced such acts within the last 150 days, provided they submit written verification. This verification can include a valid protective order, a report to law enforcement, or a self-certification statement.

Additionally, landlords are prohibited from denying rental agreements based on a tenant's prior lease termination under these circumstances. The bill mandates that landlords must change locks upon request from tenants or household members who feel threatened, and if the landlord does not comply within two business days, tenants may change the locks themselves.

The bill ensures the confidentiality of a tenant's status as a victim and outlines the process for obtaining refunds of security deposits or prepaid rent upon lease termination. It specifies that landlords who refuse to provide keys to individuals they believe to be perpetrators of abuse will not be held liable, while those who prevent tenants from changing locks or fail to provide keys may face liability for actual and consequential damages or three months' rent, whichever is greater. Importantly, any waivers of these rights in lease agreements are deemed void and unenforceable, reinforcing the protections for tenants facing abuse.

Statutes affected:
738: 34-18-11