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HB 619

Termination of Rental Agreement by Victim of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Violence, or Stalking

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Johanna López

Florida bill allowing domestic violence victims to break rental leases without penalty to facilitate safe housing exits died in committee.

Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 619

Legislative bill overview

HB 619 would allow victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual violence, or stalking to terminate their rental agreements without penalty or liability. The bill aims to provide a legal pathway for abuse survivors to exit housing situations safely without facing eviction proceedings or lease violation consequences.

Why is this important

Abuse victims often remain in dangerous housing situations due to fear of legal and financial consequences of breaking leases. This bill addresses a real barrier to safety by removing contractual obstacles that can trap vulnerable people with their abusers or in unsafe environments. It recognizes that standard lease enforcement mechanisms may inadvertently protect abusers rather than survivors.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord protections: Rental property owners may face financial losses from early lease termination without compensation or clear procedures for recouping damages
  • Verification requirements: The bill's mechanism for proving abuse status is unclear—whether requiring police reports, restraining orders, or other documentation, which could discourage use or create additional barriers
  • Scope ambiguity: The definition of covered relationships (dating violence vs. tenants) and what constitutes qualifying abuse may be insufficiently detailed, creating enforcement uncertainty

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

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