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SB 515

Housing: other; requirement for certain rental units to be equipped with a carbon monoxide device; provide for. Amends 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601 - 554.616) by adding sec. 1e.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stephanie Chang and 1 co-sponsor

Michigan rental housing bill mandates carbon monoxide detectors in specified rental units to protect tenants from this deadly, invisible gas.

referred to Committee on Regulatory Reform
#housing:other
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Bill Summary · SB 515

Legislative bill overview

SB 515 amends Michigan's rental housing law to require certain rental units to be equipped with carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. The bill adds a new section to the 1972 Rental Housing Act, establishing a safety standard for landlords regarding this life-threatening hazard detection.

Why is this important

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that kills approximately 400 Americans annually and injures thousands more. Requiring CO detectors in rental units directly addresses tenant safety in spaces where they have limited control over building infrastructure and appliance maintenance.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord compliance costs: Property owners may argue installation and maintenance expenses create unfair burdens, particularly for small landlords or properties with tight profit margins
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill specifies "certain rental units"—unclear which unit types are included (all rentals, only those with fuel-burning appliances, specific bedroom counts, etc.), potentially creating enforcement inconsistencies
  • Tenant responsibility gaps: The bill may not adequately address who replaces batteries, performs maintenance, or handles false alarms, potentially shifting responsibility in unclear ways

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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