Bill H.399 aims to strengthen tenant protections in Vermont by implementing several key changes to residential rental agreements and tenant rights. Notably, the bill prohibits the charging of rental application fees, mandates that rental agreements of 12 months or longer be in writing with specific terms, and limits no-cause evictions. It requires landlords to notify tenants of their intent to sell a property and establishes a rental registry along with the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate. Additionally, the bill expands discrimination prohibitions to include citizenship and immigration status, ensuring broader protections for tenants.

The legislation also introduces a Tenant Right to Purchase Down Payment Assistance Program, appropriating $5,000,000 from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to assist tenants and nonprofit organizations in purchasing residential properties. It requires property owners to engage in negotiations with tenants interested in buying their rental units and sets penalties for non-compliance. Furthermore, the bill allocates an additional $4,000,000 for the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate to support its operations and legal services. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to create a more equitable rental market while enhancing tenant rights in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9-137, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503