The proposed bill S.91, introduced by Senator Vyhovsky, seeks to strengthen tenant protections in Vermont by implementing various reforms to residential rental agreements and tenant rights. Key provisions include designating the charging of rental application fees as an unfair commercial practice, requiring written rental agreements for leases of 12 months or longer to include specific terms, and limiting no-cause evictions and annual rent increases to a maximum of one percent above the U.S. Consumer Price Index or five percent, whichever is lower. The bill also establishes a rental registry and the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate, ensures tenants have the right to counsel in eviction proceedings, and allows for the expungement of eviction records. Additionally, it expands discrimination prohibitions to include citizenship and immigration status.

Significant amendments to existing law include the requirement for detailed written rental agreements and the introduction of a Tenant Right to Purchase Down Payment Assistance Program, which allocates $5 million to assist tenants and nonprofit organizations in purchasing residential properties. The bill mandates that property owners notify tenants of their intent to sell and negotiate in good faith if a majority of tenants express interest in purchasing the property. It also imposes penalties on owners who fail to comply with these requirements. Furthermore, the legislation appropriates an additional $4 million to fund the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate and legal services, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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