SCS/HCS/HBs 243 & 544 - This act provides that, with certain exceptions, a person who is, has been, or is in imminent danger of becoming a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking shall not be denied tenancy, evicted from the premises, or in violation of a lease agreement on the basis of, or as a direct result of being such a victim. The tenant has an affirmative defense, in certain actions brought by the landlord, that the tenant who vacated the premise was a victim or was in imminent danger of becoming a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence or stalking. Additionally, this act provides a list of acceptable evidence that the landlord must accept as proof that the lessee or tenant was or was going to be a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, or stalking. Finally, this act allows a landlord to impose a reasonable termination fee on such a tenant or lessee who wants to terminate the lease before the expiration date. The provisions of this act shall only apply to residential properties. This act modifies the current language regarding when a person commits the offense of nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images. Provisions of this act are identical to SCS/SB 60 (2019), and other provisions of this act are identical to HB 925 (2019). CHARLEY MERRIWEATHER
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