Tennessee House Bill HB0988

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Engrossed: 3/21/23
• Enrolled: 4/28/23
• Passed: 5/11/23
• Chaptered: 5/19/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29 and Title 66, relative to landlord obligations.

Impact

The implications of HB 0988 are significant for both landlords and tenants, as it seeks to provide older tenants with greater protection against abrupt evictions. By enforcing a mandatory notice period, the bill aims to ensure that older residents are not displaced without adequate time to secure alternate housing. This protection is particularly relevant as many older individuals may find it challenging to relocate under short notice, thus impacting their quality of life and access to stable living conditions.

Summary

House Bill 0988, known as the 'Norma Jean Upshaw Act', amends Tennessee's landlord-tenant laws, particularly focusing on the obligations of landlords to provide notice of eviction to residential tenants aged fifty-five and older. The bill stipulates that landlords must give a minimum of sixty days' notice before terminating a tenancy if the tenant is current on their rent and the eviction is to facilitate new property development. This means that the eviction cannot occur if the tenant is in good standing, especially for properties housing older individuals that are receiving federal financial assistance.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 0988 appears to be supportive among advocates for senior rights and housing stability, who view the legislation as a necessary measure to protect vulnerable populations from potential housing instability. However, concerns were raised by some landlords and property developers, who argue that such regulations might complicate their ability to manage properties and make timely decisions about development or renovations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include the balance between protecting tenant rights and the flexibility needed by landlords to operate efficiently. Critics of the bill argue that the provisions might hinder property development, as the required notice period could deter landlords from pursuing renovations that require tenant displacement. Conversely, supporters maintain that protecting the rights of older tenants is paramount, emphasizing the need for dignity and fairness in housing policies affecting this demographic.