The bill seeks to strengthen tenant protections during extreme heat by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. It prohibits landlords from restricting tenants from installing portable cooling devices, provided they comply with building codes and safety guidelines, and mandates that landlords prioritize tenants with disabilities who require these devices. Additionally, landlords must inform tenants of their rights regarding the installation and operation of cooling devices in rental agreements. The bill clarifies that landlords are not liable for damages caused by tenant-installed cooling devices and establishes that sheriffs cannot execute eviction orders during periods of extreme heat, as defined by heat-related alerts from the National Weather Service.

Moreover, the bill includes amendments to the laws governing writs of restitution in eviction proceedings. It requires that the notice accompanying a writ of restitution inform tenants about partial payments and the prohibition of eviction during heat-related alerts, specifically stating that evictions cannot occur until 48 hours after such alerts expire. If an alert is announced in advance, tenants are protected from eviction starting 24 hours before the alert takes effect. The bill also clarifies that tenants cannot post a bond to retain possession if the eviction is based on drug-related activities and establishes that sheriffs are immune from civil liability when enforcing writs of restitution, unless gross negligence is proven. These measures aim to enhance tenant protections, particularly during extreme heat conditions.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 59.18.390