WeVote
Log In

Bill

WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 1671

Summary of SF 1671 — Landlords just cause provided for terminating a tenancy requirement provision

Overview

SF 1671 is a Minnesota bill introduced on February 20, 2025, titled “Landlords just cause provided for terminating a tenancy requirement provision.” The bill has been referred to the Judiciary and Public Safety committee. A companion with the same intent is HF 997.

Purpose and intent

  • The bill aims to require landlords to terminate a tenancy only for just cause, rather than allowing termination without stated justification.
  • It reflects an intent to strengthen tenant protections by ensuring eviction or lease termination is based on defensible, specified grounds.

Key provisions (as introduced)

  • The exact statutory text detailing grounds, procedures, notices, exemptions, and remedies is not provided in the materials available here.
  • Based on the title and common structure of “just cause” tenancy bills, potential provisions (not confirmed in the provided file) could include:
    • Definition of “just cause” grounds for terminating a tenancy (e.g., nonpayment of rent, breach of lease terms, owner-occupancy, sale of property, substantial property rehabilitation, or other documented reasons).
    • Notice requirements for termination, specifying timing and form of notice.
    • Possible exemptions or carve-outs (e.g., temporary leases, certain subsidized housing, or exemptions from specific eviction grounds).
    • Remedies or protections for tenants (e.g., opportunity to cure breaches, relocation assistance, penalties for wrongful eviction).
  • At present, the specific grounds, timelines, and enforcement mechanisms are not spelled out in the information provided.

Affected parties

  • Tenants: Likely to gain enhanced protections against arbitrary or unilateral termination.
  • Landlords and property managers: Would be subject to new standards defining “just cause” and corresponding procedural requirements.
  • Housing and legal services providers: Potentially involved in explaining the new requirements, mediating disputes, or enforcing compliance.
  • Public safety and housing agencies: May play a role in administration, guidance, or enforcement if the bill becomes law.

Procedural timeline and status

  • Introduced: February 20, 2025.
  • First reading and referral: February 20, 2025, to Judiciary and Public Safety.
  • Current stage: Awaiting committee action (as of the information provided).

Related legislation

  • HF 997 is identified as a companion bill, likely mirroring SF 1671’s provisions in a House version.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Tenant protections could become stronger, potentially reducing abrupt or unilateral evictions.
  • Landlords may need to adjust lease termination practices, documentation, and tenant communications.
  • Administrative and enforcement frameworks would be required, with potential cost and time implications for local jurisdictions and housing agencies.
  • Accuracy on specific grounds and procedures will depend on the full text once released or amended.

Next steps for readers

  • Monitor upcoming committee hearings or amendments for SF 1671 to see the exact statutory text, grounds for just-cause termination, notice timelines, and any exemptions.
  • Review HF 997 for parallel provisions in the House.
  • Consider how the bill, if enacted, would interact with local housing ordinances and any statewide rental housing programs.

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

Sign in to ask a question.