An Act to renumber and amend 704.085 (2); to amend 704.085 (1); to create 704.052 and 704.085 (2) (b) of the statutes; Relating to: prohibiting landlords from charging application fees and credit checks and background checks obtained by landlords.
Impact
If enacted, SB1063 would significantly alter the landscape of rental applications by limiting the types of fees that landlords can impose. This could lead to a more equitable housing market where prospective tenants have a fairer chance to apply for rental properties without the risk of incurring high upfront costs. Furthermore, this bill aligns with broader efforts to improve housing affordability and accessibility in the state, addressing the challenges faced by low-income renters.
Summary
SB1063 is a bill aimed at prohibiting landlords from charging application fees and conducting credit checks and background checks on prospective tenants. The bill is designed to reduce the financial burden on individuals seeking housing, particularly those from low-income backgrounds or marginalized communities who may already face significant barriers to housing. By removing these fees, the bill aims to increase access to rental opportunities for countless individuals who might otherwise be deterred by the additional costs associated with applying for tenancy.
Contention
However, SB1063 has faced some opposition from landlord associations and property management companies who argue that application fees and background checks are necessary tools for ensuring tenant reliability and protecting their investments. Critics of the bill claim that without these checks, landlords would be at a higher risk of renting to individuals with a history of eviction or other issues that could lead to property damage or unpaid rent. This contention highlights the balance that must be struck between protecting tenants' rights and ensuring landlords can effectively manage their properties.
Crossfiled
An Act to renumber and amend 704.085 (2); to amend 704.085 (1); to create 704.052 and 704.085 (2) (b) of the statutes; Relating to: prohibiting landlords from charging application fees and credit checks and background checks obtained by landlords.
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to chapter 47-16 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to landlords and criminal background checks.
Providing for public housing safety committees; further providing for requirements regarding tenants and landlords in cities of the first class; and providing for background checks for landlords.
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.
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.