OLR Bill Analysis

sHB 5127

AN ACT CONCERNING THE ADMISSION OF ELDERLY PERSONS TO PUBLIC AND SUBSIDIZED HOUSING.

SUMMARY:

This bill allows certain elderly and disabled individuals accepted into state or federally subsidized housing to terminate their existing leases or rental agreements without penalty if they provide 30 days written notice to their landlord. The bill applies to low-income seniors age 62 and older and individuals certified as disabled by a federal board or agency.

Currently, if the existing lease does not provide an early termination option, these individuals may be required to forfeit their security deposit or be subject to a lawsuit by the landlord for the outstanding rent on the lease.

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2008 and applicable to any existing lease or rental agreement entered into, renewed, or extended on or after this date.

BACKGROUND

Legislative History

The House referred the bill (File 335) to the Judiciary Committee, which reported a substitute specifying that the bill applies to any existing lease or rental agreement entered into, renewed, or extended on or after October 1, 2008.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Select Committee on Aging

Joint Favorable Change of Reference

Planning and Development Committee

Joint Favorable

Judiciary Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute