Senator Dibble, affordable housing and tenants' rights advocate
Senator Dibble had a good day yesterday. The Governor signed into law 4 pieces of legislation he was the lead author of — including the Minnesota Tenant Bill of Rights. Here’s what Senator Dibble had to say about the new law:
Minnesota’s renter population has increased, particularly in recent years, but Minnesota law simply hasn’t kept up with the growing need to adequately protect tenants who must negotiate contracts with landlords. This legislation will give renters the rights and legal protections they need to level the playing field, and it will clarify the duties of landlords so they are able to uphold their responsibilities more effectively.
Senator Dibble is a tireless advocate for renters’ rights, affordable housing, and ending homelessness. This year he is also working to save the Renters’ Credit and secure a dedicated source of funding for affordable housing. For several years, he’s been the “go to guy” on legislation to address youth homelessness.
Did you also know that Senator Dibble is one of the celebrity runners in HOME Line’s Treadmill-a-Thon? Click here to learn more.
Senator Linda Higgins also helped usher the Tenant Bill of Rights through the Minnesota Legislature this year. In addition to being one of the authors of the legislation, she helped us negotiate the bill through the Judiciary Committee. Yesterday, Senator Higgins pointed out that:
This legislation will remove some of the daunting barriers that prohibit many Minnesotans from obtaining the housing they need. For too many families, it already is difficult to find affordable housing options that meet their needs. These changes will provide more protection to those seeking rental housing or hoping to remain in their current homes.
Thanks to all our bill sponsors: Senators Dibble, Higgins, Marty, and Kelash and Representatives Mullery, Clark, Hayden, and Champion!