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Bill

AB 1140

Relating to: actions for relief from extrajudicial eviction in small claims court. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Clint Anderson and 4 co-sponsors

Allows tenants to sue landlords in small claims court for damages from illegal lockouts or property removal without formal eviction proceedings.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · AB 1140

Legislative bill overview

AB 1140 creates a mechanism for tenants to seek relief in small claims court when they experience "extrajudicial eviction"—when landlords remove tenants or their belongings without following formal court eviction procedures. The bill allows tenants to pursue legal action for damages in a more accessible forum than traditional civil courts, lowering barriers to justice for low-income renters.

Why is this important

Extrajudicial evictions (illegal lockouts, removing belongings, shutting off utilities) disproportionately affect vulnerable tenants who may lack resources to hire attorneys or navigate complex litigation. Small claims court offers lower filing fees, simpler procedures, and no attorney requirement, making it viable for tenants seeking compensation for illegal removal actions by landlords.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord liability concerns: Property owners argue the bill creates expansive liability for informal disputes and may be weaponized by tenants over disagreements about lease terms or maintenance responsibilities
  • Definition ambiguity: "Extrajudicial eviction" may be interpreted differently across cases, creating enforcement inconsistency and potential frivolous claims in small claims court
  • Small claims court capacity: Critics question whether small claims dockets can handle a likely surge in housing-related disputes without significant resource increases

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

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