The Minnesota Fair Chance Access to Housing Act aims to reduce housing discrimination against individuals with criminal records by regulating how landlords can use an applicant’s criminal history in the rental process.

Key provisions of the bill include:

1. Restrictions on Rental Advertisements:

   • Landlords cannot advertise that rental applications will be denied solely based on an applicant’s criminal history.
   • Before accepting an application fee, landlords must disclose in writing whether they will consider an applicant’s criminal record.

2. Screening Process:

   • Landlords can evaluate rental applications based on factors such as income, rental history, and credit score before considering an applicant’s criminal record.
   • A conditional offer must be given if an applicant meets these criteria.

3. Criminal Record Consideration (After Conditional Offer):

   • Landlords may only consider specific serious criminal offenses, including:
     • Arson or human trafficking.
     • Criminal sexual conduct.
     • Convictions requiring registration as a predatory offender.
     • Felony convictions within the past year.
   • A criminal history alone cannot be a reason for denial unless it is determined necessary for a substantial, legitimate, and nondiscriminatory interest after an individualized assessment.

4. Individualized Assessment Process:

   • Landlords must notify applicants in writing if they are conducting an individualized assessment.
   • Applicants must be given time to provide mitigating evidence, such as:
     • Proof of rehabilitation, employment, or substance abuse treatment.
     • Character references.

5. Denial Process:

   • If a conditional offer is withdrawn due to criminal history:
     • Landlords must provide written notice within 24 hours detailing the reasons.
     • Applicants must be informed of their right to file a complaint.
     • Any application fees or holding deposits must be refunded.
     • Applicants can request and receive, free of charge, all documents used in the decision.

6. Landlord Liability Protection:

   • Landlords who comply with the law are protected from liability if they rent to individuals with criminal records.

7. Exceptions & Enforcement:

   • Small landlords with owner-occupied buildings (under a certain number of units) may be exempt.
   • The Minnesota Department of Human Rights will enforce violations, with fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 per violation, depending on the number of units in a building.

The act is designed to increase fair access to housing for individuals with past convictions while maintaining safety and nondiscriminatory housing practices.