Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5689

Introduced
2/17/23  

Caption

Residential Landlord And Tenant Act--immigration Status

Impact

The passage of H5689 signifies an important step towards protecting the rights of tenants, especially those from immigrant communities, by safeguarding them against discrimination in housing. It requires landlords to respect the privacy of tenants concerning their immigration status while still allowing for necessary inquiries regarding financial qualifications and identity verification consistent with federal law. This bill is expected to enhance housing security for vulnerable populations and promote inclusivity within the rental market.

Summary

House Bill 5689 addresses the relationship between landlords and tenants by specifically prohibiting inquiries regarding the immigration or citizenship status of tenants or prospective tenants. Under this legislation, landlords or their agents cannot ask about or require any statements concerning the immigration status of individuals seeking to rent residential properties. This measure aims to protect tenants from potential discrimination based on their immigration status, ensuring equal access to housing without prejudice or undue scrutiny.

Contention

As with many legislative measures surrounding immigration issues, H5689 faces potential contention among various stakeholders. Supporters argue that this bill is essential for preventing discrimination and promoting equal housing opportunities, particularly in areas with diverse populations. However, some opponents may raise concerns over potential impacts on housing regulations and legal responsibilities of landlords. These discussions may lead to broader debates about the balance between housing rights and enforcement of immigration laws at the state level.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5675

Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information.

RI S0274

Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information or proof of identity.

RI H5674

Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information or proof of identity.

RI SB349

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; pre-tenancy fees.

RI SB2347

Relating To The Residential Landlord-tenant Code.

RI HB1252

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; algorithmic pricing device use by certain landlords.

RI HB1078

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; adverse action by landlord, tenant remedies.

RI HB1872

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; adverse action by landlord, tenant remedies.

RI SB815

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; adverse action by landlord, tenant remedies.

RI HB616

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; tenant records.

Similar Bills

MI SB0372

Housing: landlord and tenants; reuse of certain tenant screening reports; allow. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601) & adds secs. 1e, 1f, 1g & 1h.

WI SB1063

Prohibiting landlords from charging application fees and credit checks and background checks obtained by landlords.

WI AB1064

Prohibiting landlords from charging application fees and credit checks and background checks obtained by landlords.

CA AB1963

Hiring of real property: portable screening reports: disclosure of application materials.

MI HB4995

Housing: landlord and tenants; prohibition of the use of prospective tenants' credit scores as a sole deciding factor for lease eligibility and allowance for landlords to accept reusable screening reports; provide for. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601) & adds secs. 1e, 1f, 1g & 1h.

AZ HB2243

landlord tenant act; application fees

MD HB1077

Education - Career and Technical Education - Workgroup to Study Tiered Stackable Credentials Framework

WI SB1057

Access to prospective tenants’ credit scores and consumer credit reports.