Bill S.91, introduced by Senator Vyhovsky, aims to strengthen tenant protections in Vermont through various measures. It designates the charging of rental application fees as an unfair commercial practice and requires that rental agreements of 12 months or longer be documented in writing, specifying essential terms such as party identification, property description, financial obligations, and maintenance responsibilities. The bill limits 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. It also establishes a rental registry and the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate, ensuring tenants have the right to legal counsel in eviction proceedings and the ability to expunge eviction records. Notably, the bill deletes language regarding attempts to circumvent rental agreement terms while inserting new requirements for rental agreements and tenant rights, including the right to receive notice of property sales and the right to negotiate for purchase.

Additionally, the bill introduces a Tenant Right to Purchase Down Payment Assistance Program, allocating $5 million from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to assist tenants and nonprofit organizations in purchasing residential properties. It mandates the creation of a publicly accessible rental housing registry and requires owners to register their rental units and pay an annual fee. The bill expands discrimination prohibitions to include citizenship and immigration status, thereby enhancing tenant rights. It also appropriates an additional $4 million for the Office of Tenants Rights Advocate and legal services, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Overall, S.91 seeks to create a more equitable rental market and protect tenants from unfair practices while providing them with greater opportunities for homeownership.

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