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AB 924

Leases: termination of tenancy: abuse or violence: security deposit.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Laurie Davies

AB 924 allows California tenants experiencing abuse or violence to terminate leases early and protects their security deposits from forfeiture.

Referred to Com. on JUD.
#leases #abuseorviolence #securitydeposit #terminationoftenancy
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 924

Legislative bill overview

AB 924 addresses the termination of residential tenancies in cases involving abuse or violence, with provisions related to security deposits. The bill appears to create mechanisms for tenants experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or similar abuse to break leases and potentially recover security deposits without penalty. This is still in early legislative stages and has been referred to the Judiciary Committee.

Why is this important

Survivors of domestic violence and abuse often face significant barriers to leaving unsafe housing situations, particularly when lease agreements lock them into tenancies with abusers or prevent them from leaving without financial penalties. This bill attempts to remove one of those barriers by allowing abuse survivors to terminate leases early while protecting their security deposits, which can be critical for accessing safe alternative housing. The measure recognizes that safety concerns may supersede contractual obligations.

Potential points of contention

  • Verification concerns: Questions about what documentation proves abuse occurred and how landlords verify claims without violating privacy or creating litigation exposure
  • Landlord liability and costs: Uncertainty about whether landlords bear financial losses from early termination and whether they can hold tenants responsible for finding replacement renters
  • Definition scope: Ambiguity about what qualifies as "abuse or violence" and whether it includes only domestic violence or extends to other forms of assault or threatening behavior

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

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