Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB6212

Introduced
1/12/24  
Refer
1/12/24  

Caption

Requiring landlords to report on-time rent payments to consumer reporting agencies.

Impact

If enacted, SB6212 would significantly impact state housing laws by mandating that landlords actively participate in the reporting of payment behavior. This change would not only benefit tenants by potentially improving their credit profiles, but it would also encourage timely rent payments, fostering a more stable rental income stream for landlords. By creating this reporting obligation, the bill seeks to incentivize positive rental payment practices and promote financial responsibility among tenants.

Summary

SB6212 proposes to require landlords to report on-time rent payments to consumer reporting agencies, thereby establishing a mechanism for tenants to build credit through their rental payment history. The legislation aims to enhance the financial standing of renters, providing them with the opportunity to improve their credit scores. This, in turn, may facilitate better access to financial products and housing opportunities for renters who may otherwise find themselves at a disadvantage due to limited credit histories.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, SB6212 may face opposition due to concerns about privacy and the potential for misuse of tenant data by landlords or credit agencies. Critics might argue that mandating such reporting could subject tenants to undue scrutiny. Additionally, landlords may have reservations about their responsibility to report, fearing the liabilities associated with inaccuracies in reporting or the potential impact on their relationship with tenants. Consequently, discussions surrounding the bill are likely to focus on balancing the benefits of credit reporting with mechanisms to protect tenant rights and data privacy.

Companion Bills

WA HB2323

Crossfiled Requiring landlords to report on-time rent payments to consumer reporting agencies.

Previously Filed As

WA HB2323

Requiring landlords to report on-time rent payments to consumer reporting agencies.

WA HB1927

Facilitating positive rent payment information to consumer reporting agencies at tenant request.

WA HB65

Directing landlords to offer tenants the option of reporting rental payments to consumer reporting agencies.

WA LB1161

Adopt the Consumer and Employment Arbitration Data Reporting Act

WA LB17

Prohibit certain fees by residential landlords and require notices and disclosures of consumer reports

WA HB1282

Requiring environmental and labor reporting for public building construction and renovation material.

WA SB5322

Requiring environmental and labor reporting for public building construction and renovation material.

WA LB41

Prohibit state agencies from imposing annual filing and reporting requirements on charitable organizations

WA HB1389

Extending the expiration date for reporting requirements on timber purchases.

WA HB2383

Reporting on dependency outcomes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.