FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11 December 2009, 9 a.m.
For more information contact:
Michael Dahl, Public Policy Director
HOME Line
Email: michaeld@homelinemn.org
Blog: http://homelinemn.wordpress.com/
(w) (612) 728-5770 *111
Legislative Proposal Will Help Thousands of Renters in Tenant – Landlord Disputes
HOME Line, a statewide tenant rights organization, announced its Legislative Agenda for 2010. In addition to fighting Governor Pawlenty’s proposed cut to the state Renters’ Credit, HOME Line will advance a Minnesota Tenant Bill of Rights. The campaign proposes everything from a statewide heat standard to reforms in the rental application process.
“This year over 11,000 Minnesota renters will call us with tenant – landlord issues,” stated Michael Dahl, Public Policy Director with HOME Line. “Tenants want to know their rights; and, many feel they deserve more. We happen to agree.”
With the State grappling with a projected deficit of over $5 billion, HOME Line is proposing law changes that won’t cost the State a thing. “Good landlords do these things already,” noted Dahl. “This would only ask more from landlords who aren’t doing their part.” Since it has been 20 years since the last major examination of tenant – landlord law, HOME Line contents that the time is ripe for the Minnesota Tenant Bill of Rights.
Included in the legislative proposal are the following provisions:
- The right to a warm home.
- The right to a well-maintained home.
- The right to an affordable, fair, and open application process.
- The right to an affordable security deposit and late fees.
- The right to a receipt for rent paid.
- The right to a fair division of utility charges.
- The right to correct a problem before your landlord files an eviction in court.
- The right to fair treatment in a legal dispute with a landlord.
- The right to move in the case of a severe illness or disability.
- The right to fair treatment in the case of landlord going into foreclosure.
