Maryland 2022 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB563

Introduced
1/31/22  
Refer
1/31/22  
Report Pass
3/18/22  
Engrossed
3/21/22  
Refer
3/21/22  
Report Pass
4/7/22  
Enrolled
4/11/22  

Caption

Real Property - Actions to Repossess - Judgment for Tenants and Proof of Rental Licensure

Impact

The passage of SB 563 modifies existing laws regarding eviction processes, particularly focusing on the accountability of landlords. It introduces an evidentiary requirement that landlords need to fulfill to demonstrate their adherence to local rental licensure laws before initiating eviction actions. This change aims to prevent landlords from exploiting ambiguities in the law and enhances the legal protections afforded to tenants, potentially leading to fairer outcomes in eviction cases.

Summary

Senate Bill 563, titled 'Real Property - Actions to Repossess - Judgment for Tenants and Proof of Rental Licensure', aims to enhance tenant protections in eviction proceedings. It allows the District Court to rule in favor of tenants when the landlord makes a breach of lease assertion in bad faith or without substantial justification. The bill is designed to ensure that landlords must provide proof of compliance with local rental property licensing requirements before they can repossess a property, thus holding landlords accountable for maintaining their properties legitimately.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment regarding SB 563 appears to be supportive among proponents of tenant rights, who view the bill as a necessary safeguard against wrongful evictions. Advocates argue that it brings much-needed balance to the landlord-tenant relationship by requiring landlords to substantiate their claims and actions within the context of established local laws. However, some property owner groups may express concerns about the bureaucratic burden this may create for legitimate eviction processes, emphasizing a desire for a fair and expedient system.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 563 include debates over the balance between tenant protections and landlord rights. Critics may argue that the increased requirements on landlords could delay the eviction process and complicate legitimate claims for repossession of properties. Additionally, opponents might contend that the bill could lead to potential misuse by tenants, who may exploit the new legal protections to prolong their stays in properties without fulfilling their rental obligations.

Companion Bills

MD HB703

Crossfiled Real Property – Actions to Repossess – Judgment for Tenants and Proof of Rental Licensure

Similar Bills

MD HB36

Real Property – Actions to Repossess – Proof of Rental Licensure

MD SB100

Real Property – Actions to Repossess – Proof of Rental Licensure

MD HB703

Real Property – Actions to Repossess – Judgment for Tenants and Proof of Rental Licensure

MD HB101

Landlord and Tenant - Repossession for Failure to Pay Rent - Lead Risk Reduction Compliance

MD HB1309

Landlord and Tenant – Repossession for Failure to Pay Rent – Procedures

MD HB367

Landlord and Tenant – Repossession for Failure to Pay Rent – Rental Assistance Programs

MD HB174

Landlord and Tenant - Repossession for Failure to Pay Rent - Registration of Affected Property

MD HB1531

Anne Arundel County - Actions to Repossess for Failure to Pay Rent - Summons