Michigan House Bill HB5767

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/30/24
• Refer: 5/30/24

Caption

Housing: landlord and tenants; notice requirements for early lease termination for certain victims of violence; expand. Amends sec. 1b of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601b).

Impact

If enacted, HB5767 would modify existing statutes under 1972 PA 348 by requiring landlords to inform tenants of their rights to terminate their leases under specific conditions. By mandating that landlords include provisions regarding these rights in rental agreements, the bill ensures that tenants are better informed of their legal options. The legislation also establishes the process through which tenants can submit documentation of their claims, thereby streamlining access to these protections.

Summary

House Bill 5767 aims to amend the Michigan law regulating landlord-tenant relationships, specifically addressing the rights of tenants who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The bill allows tenants who have a reasonable apprehension of danger to seek early termination of their rental agreements. This is designed to provide a legal pathway for victims to escape potentially harmful living situations without the added burden of continued financial obligations, thereby enhancing tenant protections in the face of violence.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding the bill include the potential for misuse by tenants seeking to avoid their rental obligations, as well as concerns from landlords regarding enforcement and documentation requirements. Critics argue that the bill could create loopholes that allow tenants to evade responsibilities. Additionally, there are debates over how landlords should verify claims of danger — whether by requiring police reports or other documentation — raising questions about privacy and the report-related burden on victims.