SF3175

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to create a statewide landlord database in Minnesota. This database aims to collect information on landlords and their rental properties to help ensure transparency and provide resources for tenants. The bill also establishes penalties and enforcement measures for landlords who fail to comply with the registration requirements.

Main Provisions

• Statewide Landlord Database: A database will be established by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. This database will store and maintain information about landlords and rental properties, which will be publicly accessible at no cost.
• Landlord Registration: Landlords are required to submit detailed information about their rental properties to the database. This includes the names of property owners, business addresses, rent details, and rental license information, if applicable.
• Annual Updates: Landlords must update their information annually by February 1st or within 60 days of a new tenant occupying a unit.
• Tenant Reporting and Remedies: If a landlord or property is not found in the database, tenants and prospective tenants can report this. The agency will notify the landlord, who then has 60 days to comply. Tenants can take civil action if the landlord fails to register, potentially receiving injunctive relief, attorney fees, and a civil penalty.
• Retaliation Protection: The bill prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who report non-compliance or exercise their rights under this law. Any form of retaliation can lead to legal action for damages.
• Attorney General Enforcement: The Minnesota attorney general has the authority to enforce these provisions. Courts can impose penalties on landlords who knowingly violate the registration requirements.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 8.31 to include the enforcement of the new landlord database requirements.
• It introduces a new section (462A.45) to the Minnesota Statutes, detailing the requirements and processes related to the landlord database.

Relevant Terms

• Landlord
• Tenant
• Statewide landlord database
• Registration
• Civil penalty
• Retaliation
• Attorney general enforcement