In creation of leases, statute of frauds and mortgaging of leaseholds, providing for criminal background; and imposing a penalty.
Impact
The proposed amendments represent a significant shift in the rental market by enhancing protections for potential tenants against discrimination based on their criminal history. By limiting the landlords' ability to ask about certain aspects of a tenant's criminal background, the bill seeks to support reintegration into society, especially for those who have rehabilitated and are attempting to lead law-abiding lives. This could lead to increased housing stability among marginalized populations who often face significant barriers when it comes to obtaining housing due to their past actions.
Summary
House Bill 96 aims to amend the Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 by introducing specific restrictions on how landlords may inquire about the criminal backgrounds of prospective tenants and their household members. The legislation prohibits landlords from asking about certain past criminal convictions, including arrests that did not lead to a conviction, expunged or invalidated convictions, and convictions more than seven years old. This change is designed to alleviate barriers for individuals with past criminal records in securing housing, thus promoting broader access to rental properties.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 96 has been largely positive among advocates for criminal justice reform and housing rights organizations, who view these provisions as a necessary step towards greater equity in the housing market. They argue that removing these barriers helps combat systemic discrimination that disproportionately affects low-income individuals and communities of color. However, there are some concerns expressed by property owners and landlords, who fear that not considering a tenant's criminal history might pose risks to safety and property values.
Contention
Notable points of contention in discussions about HB 96 involve the balance between tenant rights and landlord protections. Critics argue that while the bill's intentions are commendable, it may inadvertently restrict landlords' ability to screen tenants adequately, potentially leading to unwarranted risks. Supporters counter that the negative impacts of a criminal record shouldn't permanently hinder someone's ability to secure housing and that alternative screening measures can replace discriminatory practices. The debate highlights the ongoing struggle to reconcile issues of public safety, property rights, and social fairness in housing.
In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in creation of leases, statute of frauds and mortgaging of leaseholds, providing for website and disclosure of flood risks.
In creation of leases, statute of frauds and mortgaging of leaseholds, further providing for leases for not more than three years and for leases for more than three years and providing for notice of building credit through rent reporting program for residential leases; and providing for reporting rent payment information to consumer reporting agency program.
In creation of leases, statute of frauds and mortgaging of leaseholds, further providing for leases for not more than three years and for leases for more than three years and providing for notice of building credit through rent reporting program for residential leases; and providing for reporting rent payment information to consumer reporting agency program.