Nevada Assembly Bill AB298

Nevada 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Report Pass: 4/20/23
• Engrossed: 4/25/23
• Refer: 4/25/23
• Report Pass: 5/15/23
• Enrolled: 5/26/23
• Vetoed: 6/1/23
• Failed: 6/6/23

Caption

Revises provisions governing housing. (BDR 10-249)

Impact

One significant impact of AB298 is that it mandates landlords provide clear explanations for any fees charged in a rental agreement. This information must be included in a separate appendix, detailing the nature, purpose, and amount of fees collected during the term of the lease. The bill also stipulates that landlords cannot increase rent more than 10% for existing tenants during a specific period, which aims to provide stability for tenants at risk of sudden financial hardships due to unexpected rent hikes.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 298, introduced by Assemblywoman Jauregui, modifies several provisions related to real property to enhance tenant protections. Key aspects of the bill include requiring landlords to refund application fees to prospective tenants if they choose to rent the unit to someone else without conducting the necessary activities for which the fee was collected. The bill also prohibits landlords from charging application fees for minors in the prospective tenant's household, thereby reducing the financial burden on families seeking housing.

Contention

The discussions around AB298 included points of contention regarding the balance between landlord's rights and tenant protections. Proponents argued that the bill would improve transparency and accountability in rental agreements, making it easier for tenants to understand their financial obligations. Critics, however, expressed concerns about the potential for unintended consequences, including the possibility that landlords may resort to other cost-saving measures that could adversely impact tenants, such as reducing maintenance or service quality.