Relating to screening by a landlord of applicants for residential tenancies.
Impact
The proposed amendments to the Texas Property Code could significantly impact both landlords and tenants. By requiring landlords to disclose their tenant selection criteria, the bill promotes fairness in the application process and helps ensure that potential tenants are aware of what is needed for their application to be accepted. Furthermore, it allows applicants the opportunity to present evidence related to inaccuracies in their criminal records or demonstrate their rehabilitation, providing a fairer chance at securing housing. These provisions are aimed at reducing discrimination in the housing market.
Summary
House Bill 3198 aims to enhance transparency in the residential rental application process by mandating landlords to provide applicants with clear tenant selection criteria before accepting application fees. The bill explicitly states the grounds on which a rental application may be denied, including a potential tenant's criminal history, previous rental history, current income, credit history, and any inaccuracies in the application form. This change is intended to empower applicants by informing them about the criteria used in screening and the reasons that could lead to a denial.
Contention
While supporters of HB 3198 emphasize the importance of a fair rental application process, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of such transparency requirements for landlords. Critics could argue that the mandated disclosures may lead to increased paperwork and administrative burdens for landlords. Additionally, there could be debate over how effectively evidence of rehabilitation or inaccuracies can be evaluated in practice, which may lead to disagreements between applicants and landlords. Overall, the balance between ensuring tenant rights and supporting landlord interests will be a focal point of discussion in the legislative process.
Relating to the establishment of a program administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and certain county housing authorities to incentivize landlords to accept tenants participating in the housing choice voucher program.