Minneslate Logo

HF2261 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Landlords and tenants; effective dates clarified, landlord covenants modified, additional remedies provided, and technical changes made.

Related bill: SF1565

AI Generated Summary

This bill, introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives, aims to modify landlord-tenant laws by clarifying effective dates, updating landlord obligations, and providing additional remedies for tenants. Key amendments include:

  1. Landlord Obligations:

    • Landlords must maintain rental properties, ensuring they are safe, in reasonable repair, free of pests, and energy efficient.
    • They are required to provide heating at a minimum of 68°F from October 1 to April 30.
    • They cannot commit violations as defined in the law.

  2. Tenant Remedies & Rent Escrow:

    • Tenants may deposit rent with the court if a landlord fails to address violations.
    • If a housing violation is reported and remains unresolved after a specified period, tenants may take legal action by notifying the landlord and depositing rent with the court.
    • The court will provide simplified forms for tenants to use in these situations.

  3. Landlord Notification Requirement:

    • Before legal action can be initiated, landlords must be given written notice at least 14 days in advance regarding alleged violations.
    • Housing-related organizations may also take action on behalf of tenants if given written permission.
    • Courts may waive notification if a landlord cannot be located despite reasonable efforts.

The bill makes technical changes to existing laws and strengthens tenant protections while holding landlords accountable for maintaining rental properties in compliance with health, safety, and energy efficiency standards.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 11, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toHousing Finance and Policy
March 11, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toHousing Finance and Policy

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "The statute relates to the powers of the attorney general to investigate and enforce laws against unfair, discriminatory, and unlawful business practices.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "8.31",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This statute outlines the general covenants and conditions a landlord must adhere to when leasing residential premises.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "504B.161",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This statute allows tenants to deposit rent with the court when landlords fail to make necessary repairs or correct violations.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "504B.385",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This statute requires that landlords be informed of any alleged housing violations at least 14 days before a tenant can bring an action.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "504B.395",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 4"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Relates to the Act Against Unfair Discrimination and Competition, among other antitrust laws.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "325D.01",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Describes the Unlawful Trade Practices Act.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "325D.09",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Describes the Antitrust Act.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "325D.49",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Related to consumer protection, particularly against false or fraudulent advertising.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "325F.67",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Part of the Prevention of Consumer Fraud Act.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "325F.68",
    "subdivision": ""
  }
]

Sponsors