Bill H.399 aims to strengthen tenant protections in Vermont by implementing various measures related to residential rental agreements and tenant rights. Key provisions include designating rental application fees as an unfair commercial practice, requiring written rental agreements for leases of 12 months or longer that outline specific terms, and limiting no-cause evictions and annual rent increases. The bill proposes the creation of a rental registry and the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate, which will provide legal assistance and mediation services. It also expands discrimination prohibitions in housing to include citizenship and immigration status, ensuring broader protections for tenants.

Additionally, the bill introduces a Tenant Right to Purchase Down Payment Assistance Program, allocating $5,000,000 from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to assist tenants and nonprofit organizations in purchasing residential properties. It mandates that property owners notify tenants of their intent to sell, allowing them a 45-day period to express interest in purchasing the property, and establishes penalties for non-compliance. The bill also includes provisions for the right to counsel in eviction proceedings and allows for the expungement of eviction records under certain conditions. An additional $4,000,000 is appropriated for the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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