BOISE, IDAHO (CBS2) — Senate bill 1039 received public testimony on Wednesday and was sent back pending further amendments.
The proposed bill would add new language to Idaho's landlord-tenant code to prohibit certain fees, as well as put a limitation on rental costs such as late fees. It would require any fees to be put in writing so the tenants are aware of them.
The bill also states that a landlord should not charge a tenant any fine or interest greater than what the tenant agreed upon in the rental agreement.
During a Judiciary and Rules Committee, public testimony was all in favor of the bill, from both property managers and tenants.
The bill's sponsor Sen. Ali Rabe of Boise says this is something much needed during this time.
"I just wanna say as a senator in this building I think it's really rare when you find an instance in stakeholders from both sides of the table that are coming together saying the same thing in support," the bill's sponsor, Rabe said during the hearing.
"There is no opposition to this bill from the tenant to the landlord's side. It's a great compromise and it's a step in the right direction," she said.
The bill also states landlords need to notify tenants in writing before a rent increase is issued.
After testimony. the bill was sent to the Senate's 14th order of business pending further amendments. The bill is expected to be amended before it gets a debate on the Senate floor.
