Update: At HB 323’s crossover hearing on March 29 in the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, MACo submitted written testimony requesting a favorable report for the bill after working with the sponsor to address county concerns.

On February 9, 2022, Associate Policy Director D’Paul Nibber testified before the House Judiciary Committee in support of HB 323 – Real Property – Limitations on Summoning Law Enforcement or Emergency Services – Prohibition with amendments. This bill prohibits a landlord from taking action against a tenant who repeatedly summons law enforcement or emergency services to their residential property, and prohibits local jurisdictions from enacting laws that may in any way limit or punish a tenant for repeatedly summoning said agencies. MACo offered its support for HB 323 but, in the interest of preserving law enforcement resources, offered amendments limiting the scope of the local jurisdiction prohibition to major offenses.

From the MACo Testimony:

No individual in immediate need for assistance from law enforcement or emergency services should be deterred from accessing these vital county services. HB 323 understandably seeks to protect individuals experiencing domestic abuse, sexual assault, and many other serious life – threatening offenses, by shielding them from potential repercussions by property owners arising from these police calls.

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