RELATING TO LANDLORD-TENANT DISPUTES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 5 co-sponsors

HB 1324 enhances tenant rights in Arkansas by improving access to legal representation for low-income tenants in disputes with landlords, promoting fair housing practices.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

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Summary of House Bill 1324: Relating to Landlord-Tenant Disputes

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 1324
- Title: Relating to Landlord-Tenant Disputes
- Status: Reported from JHA (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 246) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to CPC.
- Introduced: January 30, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject Areas: Access to Representation, Appropriation, Income Eligibility, Judiciary, Landlord, Legal Services, Tenant

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1324 aims to address issues related to landlord-tenant disputes in the state of Arkansas. The bill seeks to enhance access to legal representation for tenants, ensuring that they have the necessary support to navigate disputes with landlords. This legislation is part of a broader effort to improve tenant rights and promote fair housing practices.

Key Provisions

Access to Legal Representation: The bill proposes measures to facilitate access to legal services for tenants facing disputes with landlords. This may include provisions for funding legal aid organizations that assist low-income tenants.

Income Eligibility Criteria: HB 1324 outlines specific income eligibility criteria for tenants seeking legal representation, ensuring that assistance is directed to those who need it most.

Judicial Process Improvements: The bill may introduce changes to streamline the judicial process for landlord-tenant disputes, making it more efficient and accessible for all parties involved.

Appropriation of Funds: The legislation includes provisions for the appropriation of funds to support the implementation of these measures, although specific dollar amounts are not detailed in the current version.

Impact

Tenants: The primary beneficiaries of HB 1324 will be tenants, particularly those from low-income backgrounds who may struggle to afford legal representation in disputes with landlords.

Landlords: Landlords may also be affected by the changes, as the bill aims to create a more balanced framework for resolving disputes, potentially leading to clearer guidelines and expectations.

Legal Services Organizations: Organizations providing legal aid and services to tenants will likely see increased funding and support, enabling them to assist more individuals in need.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Timeline:

Introduced on January 30, 2025.
Reported from the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) Committee on February 5, 2025.
Passed the second reading and was referred to the Committee on Consumer Protection (CPC) on February 6, 2025.
The bill has undergone amendments and is currently progressing through the legislative process.

Next Steps: Following its referral to the CPC, the bill will undergo further review and discussion before potentially moving to a vote in the full legislature.

In summary, HB 1324 represents a significant step towards improving tenant rights and access to legal representation in Arkansas, addressing critical issues in landlord-tenant relationships.