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Bill

A 3741

Provides rental and lease protections for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michele Matsikoudis and 5 co-sponsors

NJ bill allows domestic violence/sexual assault/stalking victims to break leases without penalty and bars landlord discrimination based on victim status.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee
#crimevictim #crimes #domesticvio #landlord
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Bill Summary · A 3741

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 3741 creates legal protections allowing victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking to break residential leases without penalty and prohibits landlords from discriminating against or evicting tenants based on their victim status. The bill also establishes procedures for victims to document their situation and provides landlords with liability protections when they honor lease terminations under these circumstances.

Why is this important

Domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking victims often face severe constraints when trying to escape dangerous situations—remaining in shared housing with perpetrators or being unable to relocate due to lease obligations. This bill removes a significant economic and legal barrier to safety, allowing victims to leave without facing eviction, credit damage, or financial penalties. The measure recognizes that housing security is foundational to escaping abuse.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and verification scope: Determining what documentation constitutes proof of victim status (police reports, restraining orders, certified statements) and who verifies claims could create administrative burdens or potential abuse
  • Landlord concerns: Property owners may worry about lost rental income, difficulty re-leasing units mid-term, and liability exposure despite protections included in the bill
  • Perpetrator information handling: Balancing victim privacy with landlords' need to know if a dangerous individual might appear at the property presents practical and legal complications

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

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