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HB 707

PUBLIC AID-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

House Bill 707 limits rent increases for seniors (62+) and veterans, capping hikes at 5% plus CPI or 10%, ensuring housing stability for these vulnerable groups.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 707

Summary of House Bill 707

Bill Number: HB 707
Title: Landlord and tenant; limitations on rent increases for seniors and veterans; provide
Status: House Second Readers
Introduced: March 03, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 707 aims to provide financial protections for seniors and veterans by limiting the amount landlords can increase rent for these specific groups. The bill seeks to ensure that individuals aged 62 and older, as well as veterans receiving federal benefits, are not subjected to excessive rent hikes that could jeopardize their housing stability.

Key Provisions

Definitions

The bill introduces several key definitions to clarify its scope:
- Dwelling Unit: A structure or room used as a primary residence.
- Landlord: The owner or agent of a dwelling unit.
- Rent: The consideration received for the use of a dwelling unit, excluding security deposits.
- Rental Agreement: Any agreement between a landlord and tenant regarding occupancy.
- Tenant: Individuals aged 62 or older, veterans, or both, whose primary income comes from federal Social Security or Veterans' Benefits.

Rent Increase Limitations

  • Cap on Rent Increases: Landlords are prohibited from increasing rent by more than:
    • 5% of the lowest rent charged in the previous 12 months, plus the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for that period, or
    • 10% of the lowest rent charged in the previous 12 months.

Legal Protections

  • Affirmative Defense: Tenants can use the bill's provisions as a defense in dispossessory actions if they are charged rent above the allowed limits.

Automatic Repeal

  • The provisions of this bill will automatically expire on January 1, 2035.

Applicability

  • The bill will apply to residential lease agreements that are entered into or renewed on or after July 1, 2025.

Impact

This legislation is expected to primarily benefit:
- Seniors (62+): Protecting older adults from steep rent increases that could lead to housing insecurity.
- Veterans: Ensuring that those who have served in the military and rely on federal benefits are not disproportionately affected by rising housing costs.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 3, 2025: Bill introduced and placed in the House Hopper.
  • March 4, 2025: First reading in the House.
  • March 6, 2025: Bill moved to House Second Readers for further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 707 represents a significant step towards safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and veterans, from excessive rent increases. By establishing clear limits on rent hikes and providing legal defenses for tenants, the bill aims to promote housing stability and affordability in Georgia.

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

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