The proposed bill establishes a Tenant Assistance Program in Washington State aimed at alleviating the financial burden of high rental costs on residents. The program will provide financial assistance to eligible renters who meet specific criteria, including having a household income at or below a certain percentage of the median income for their county and spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs. The Department of Commerce will administer the program, offering grants to public housing authorities to facilitate tenant assistance payments. The bill outlines eligibility requirements, payment limits, and the process for renters to apply for assistance, while also ensuring that landlords cannot discriminate against tenants receiving this aid.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to document recording fees, redistributing a portion of the collected funds to support the Tenant Assistance Program. Specifically, from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2032, the percentage of funds allocated to the home security fund will be reduced, while a new allocation of 20% will be directed to the newly created Tenant Assistance Program account. The bill also mandates a review of the program's efficacy by a joint committee, which will report its findings and recommendations to the legislature by December 1, 2031. The Tenant Assistance Program is set to expire on June 30, 2032, unless extended or amended.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.22.250