Maryland House Bill HB1293

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/28/23

Caption

Discrimination in Housing – Consumer Credit History

Impact

The proposed legislation will significantly alter the operational standards for landlords when assessing tenant applications. The bill mandates that a reusable tenant screening report can only include information such as criminal history and eviction history, but explicitly disallows consumer credit history. This could lead to a more equitable rental market, as applicants previously denied on the basis of credit scores may now have improved opportunities. The bill also requires landlords to provide clear notifications to prospective tenants on whether they accept these specific screening reports, which adds a layer of transparency in the housing application process.

Summary

House Bill 1293, titled 'Discrimination in Housing – Consumer Credit History', seeks to amend existing state laws regarding the use of consumer credit history in tenant screening processes. The bill prohibits landlords from including a prospective tenant's consumer credit history in reusable tenant screening reports. This is aimed at broadening access to housing opportunities and preventing discrimination based on credit history, which can disproportionately affect low-income individuals and families. The bill aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance fair housing policies in the state, ensuring that credit history is not a barrier to housing access.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and stakeholders. Supporters argue that it is a necessary step towards minimizing systemic barriers to housing for vulnerable populations. On the other hand, some landlord associations express concerns that excluding credit history could lead to increased risks for landlords, potentially allowing tenants with poor financial backgrounds to secure housing without demonstrating any capability to meet rent obligations. This tension highlights the ongoing struggle between ensuring tenant protections and the interests of property owners.