The proposed legislation, known as the Rhode Island Survivor Early Lease Termination Act, 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 for terms such as "abuse," "domestic violence," and "household member." The act grants tenants the right to terminate their lease or rental agreement without penalty or liability for future rent if they or a household member have experienced such acts within the last 150 days, provided they submit written verification from appropriate sources, such as a protective order or documentation from a law enforcement agency or victim's advocate.

The bill mandates that the written verification regarding the tenant's victim status be maintained in strict confidence by the landlord. It prohibits landlords from refusing to enter into a rental agreement or denying assistance based on a tenant's prior lease termination due to these circumstances.

Additionally, the legislation allows tenants to request a change of locks if they believe they are under imminent threat of abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Landlords are required to respond to such requests within two business days. If landlords fail to comply, tenants may change the locks themselves and must provide a key to the landlord within two business days. The act protects landlords from liability for refusing to provide keys to a perpetrator based on reasonable belief and outlines penalties for landlords who do not fulfill their responsibilities regarding lock changes.

The district court is granted jurisdiction to restrain violations of the provisions related to lease termination and lock changes. Furthermore, any waivers of the rights established in the bill are declared void and unenforceable. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2291: 34-18-11
2291  SUB A: 34-18-11