reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter VII - Relocation Assistance for Tenants Displaced by Substantial Rehabilitation, Demolition, or Housing Discontinuance › § 42–3507.05. Tenant hot line

§ 42–3507.05. Tenant hot line.
The Department of Buildings shall provide for the continuation of a tenant hot line. The primary purpose of the tenant hot line is to provide assistance to low- and moderate-income tenants. To carry out this purpose, the functions and responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) Answering rent control procedural questions, and directing tenants toward possible courses of action in resolving problems;
(2) Providing advice on housing regulation violations;
(3) Explaining rent increases;
(4) Providing guidance on emergency shelter;
(5) Providing guidance on the Tenant Assistance Program;
(6) Providing guidance in resolving problems involving water, heating, repairs, and other matters;
(7) Providing advice on possible action in response to allegations of discrimination, harassment, or neglect by housing providers;
(8) Answering preliminary questions about remedies through the courts;
(9) Providing guidance when tenants are faced with eviction; and
(10) Providing guidance on other tenant problems.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 705, 32 DCR 3089; Apr. 5, 2021, D.C. Law 23-269, § 501(y)(8), 68 DCR 001490.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2575.
Expiration of Law
See Historical and Statutory Notes following § 45-2571.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter VIII - New and Vacant Rental Housing and Distressed Property › § 42–3508.01. Declaration of policy

§ 42–3508.01. Declaration of policy.
In order to assist in stimulating the expansion of the supply of decent, safe, and affordable rental housing for low- to moderate-income persons in the District, the Council declares as its policy that the Mayor and the Council shall:
(1) Use the District’s bonding authority to provide low-interest financing for the construction of new rental units and the rehabilitation of vacant rental units; and
(2) Provide tax abatements and other incentives for the construction of new rental units and the rehabilitation of vacant rental units.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 801, 32 DCR 3089.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2581.
Expiration of Law
Section 907 of D.C. Law 6-10, as amended by § 2(d) of D.C. Law 8-48 and § 818 of D.C. Law 11-52, provided that all subchapters of the act, except III and V, shall terminate on December 31, 2000.
Editor's Notes
For temporary amendment to the termination provision of D.C. Law 6-10, see § 818 of the Omnibus Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 1995 (D.C. Act 11-124, July 27, 1995, 42 DCR 4160).
Mayor authorized to issue rules: Section 2(d) of D.C. Law 10-155 provided in part that pursuant to subchapter 1 of Chapter 5 of Title 2, the Mayor shall issue rules to implement this subchapter. The proposed rules shall be submitted to the Council for a 45-day period of review, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, legal holidays, and days of Council recess. If the Council does not approve or disapprove the proposed rules, in whole or in part, by resolution within this 45-day review period, the proposed rules shall be deemed approved. Nothing in this section shall affect any requirements imposed upon the Mayor by subchapter 1 of Chapter 5 of Title 2.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter VIII - New and Vacant Rental Housing and Distressed Property › § 42–3508.02. Tax abatement for new or rehabilitated vacant rental housing

§ 42–3508.02. Tax abatement for new or rehabilitated vacant rental housing.
(a) There shall be an 80% reduction of the property tax liability during the first year newly constructed rental housing accommodations become available for rental. Tax for succeeding years shall be increased by increments of 16% of the full tax liability, until the time the full liability absent this provision, is reached.
(b) When vacant rental accommodations which have been rehabilitated become available for rental, the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall apply to the amount by which the tax assessment was increased due to rehabilitation.
(c) When vacant rental accommodations are being rehabilitated under this subchapter, the Mayor may defer or forgive any indebtedness owed the District or defer or forgive outstanding tax liens.
(d) A project eligible for tax abatement or deferral or forgiveness of any indebtedness to the District or deferral or forgiveness of tax liens under subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this section shall be subject to certification by the Mayor that it is in the best interest of the District and is consistent with the District’s rental property needs in terms of its location, type, and variety of sizes or rental units.
(e) Repealed.
(f) This section shall not apply to property which receives tax relief pursuant to §§ 47-857.03 through 47-857.10.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 802, 32 DCR 3089; Aug. 25, 1994, D.C. Law 10-155, § 2(c), 41 DCR 4873; Apr. 19, 2002, D.C. Law 14-114, § 602, 49 DCR 1468.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2582.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 42-3508.04, § 47-857.02, and § 47-859.02.
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 14-114 added subsec. (f).
Cross References
Establishment of real property tax rates, see § 47-812.
Expiration of Law
See Historical and Statutory Notes following § 42-3508.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter VIII - New and Vacant Rental Housing and Distressed Property › § 42–3508.03. Deferral or forgiveness of water and sewer fees for rehabilitated vacant rental housing

§ 42–3508.03. Deferral or forgiveness of water and sewer fees for rehabilitated vacant rental housing.
(a) Where vacant rental accommodations are being rehabilitated under this subchapter, the Mayor may defer or forgive any outstanding water and sewer fees owed by the property.
(b) A project under this section shall be subject to certification by the Mayor that it is in the best interest of the District, and is consistent with the District’s rental property needs in terms of its location, type, and variety of sizes of rental units.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 803, 32 DCR 3089.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2583.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 42-3508.04.
Expiration of Law
See Historical and Statutory Notes following § 42-3508.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter VIII - New and Vacant Rental Housing and Distressed Property › § 42–3508.04. Distressed properties improvement program

§ 42–3508.04. Distressed properties improvement program.
(a) The Mayor may establish and administer a distressed property improvement program to assist those housing accommodations which meet the requirements of § 42-3501.03(9).
(b) The distressed property improvement program may include any or all of the following:
(1) A 5-year deferral or moratorium on real property taxes;
(2) Deferral or forgiveness of water and sewer charges in arrears;
(3) Deferral or forgiveness of tax liens;
(4) Deferral or forgiveness of any indebtedness owed to the District;
(5) Low-interest or no-interest loans; and
(6) Financial grants.
(c) Nothing in subsection (b) of this section or this subchapter shall be construed as creating a right or entitlement for any housing provider or other person.
(d) Distressed properties and new or rehabilitated vacant rental housing under §§ 42-3508.02 and 42-3508.03 shall have priority over other properties for participation in the Tenant Assistance Program so long as the tenants who reside in distressed property and who receive assistance from the Tenant Assistance Program are doing so consistent with the provisions of § 42-3503.03(c).
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 804, 32 DCR 3089; Feb. 24, 1987, D.C. Law 6-192, § 13(h), 33 DCR 7836.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2584.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 42-407, § 42-3503.02, and § 42-3508.05.
Expiration of Law
See Historical and Statutory Notes following § 42-3508.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter VIII - New and Vacant Rental Housing and Distressed Property › § 42–3508.05. Distressed property improvement plan

§ 42–3508.05. Distressed property improvement plan.
(a) Upon petition by the housing provider, the Mayor may initiate the development of a distressed property improvement plan utilizing any or all of the mechanisms in § 42-3508.04(b). The development of the plan shall involve the participation of the housing provider, the tenants or tenants’ association and may include the mortgagor.
(b) A distressed property improvement plan may include, but not be limited to:
(1) A schedule of repairs and capital improvements;
(2) A schedule of services and facilities;
(3) A schedule of rents and rent increases;
(4) A schedule of mortgage payments which may reflect additional long-term loans to the housing provider for the housing accommodation;
(5) A schedule of additional capital investment in the housing accommodation by the housing provider; and
(6) A schedule of property tax payments, which may also reflect moratoria or deferrals on property tax payments and the abatement or deferral of up to 100% of any tax outstanding on the housing accommodation.
(c) In the development of the distressed property improvement plan, the Mayor may consider:
(1) The interests of tenants in achieving decent, safe, and sanitary housing at affordable rents;
(2) The long-term interest of the housing provider in achieving a sound investment and a reasonable return on the housing provider’s investment;
(3) The long-term interest of the mortgagor in achieving a financially secure mortgage; and
(4) The long-term interest of the District in achieving a decent, safe, and sanitary housing accommodation which is fiscally sound and which generates and pays its fair property tax assessment.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 805, 32 DCR 3089.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2585.
Expiration of Law
See Historical and Statutory Notes following § 42-3508.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter IX - Miscellaneous Provisions › § 42–3509.02. Attorney’s fees

§ 42–3509.02. Attorney’s fees.
The Rent Administrator, Rental Housing Commission, or a court of competent jurisdiction may award reasonable attorney’s fees to the prevailing party in any action under this chapter, except actions for eviction authorized under § 42-3505.01.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 902, 32 DCR 3089.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2592.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 42-3505.06.
Expiration of Law
See Historical and Statutory Notes following § 42-3509.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter IX - Miscellaneous Provisions › § 42–3509.03. Supersedure

§ 42–3509.03. Supersedure.
This chapter shall be considered to supersede the Rental Accommodations Act of 1975, the Rental Housing Act of 1977, and the Rental Housing Act of 1980, except that a petition filed with the Rent Administrator under the Rental Housing Act of 1980 shall be determined under the provisions of the Rental Housing Act of 1980.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 903, 32 DCR 3089.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 45-2593.
Cross References
Rental Accommodations Act of 1975, and the Rental Housing Acts of 1977 and 1980, definitions, see § 42-3501.03.
Expiration of Law
See Historical and Statutory Notes following § 42-3509.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter IX - Miscellaneous Provisions › § 42–3509.07. Termination

§ 42–3509.07. Termination.
All subchapters of this chapter, except subchapters III and V and § 42-3509.08, shall terminate on December 31, 2030.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 907, 32 DCR 3089; Oct. 19, 1989, D.C. Law 8-48, § 2(c), 36 DCR 5788; Sept. 26, 1995, D.C. Law 11-52, § 818, 42 DCR 3684; Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 1202(b), 47 DCR 6308; July 22, 2005, D.C. Law 16-10, § 2, 52 DCR 5244; Mar. 21, 2009, D.C. Law 17-319,§ 4(a), 56 DCR 214; Mar. 12, 2011, D.C. Law 18-328, § 2, 58 DCR 16; Sept. 26, 2012, D.C. Law 19-171, § 105, 59 DCR 6190; Dec. 3, 2020, D.C. Law 23-149, § 2182, 67 DCR 10493.)
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 13-172 amended the termination date.
D.C. Law 16-10 rewrote the section which had read:
“All subchapters of this chapter, except subchapters III and V, shall terminate on December 31, 2005.”
D.C. Law 17-319 substituted “except subchapters III and V and § 42-3509.08” for “except subchapters III and V”.
D.C. Law 18-328 rewrote the section, which formerly read:
“All subchapters of this chapter, except subchapters III and V and § 42-3509.08, shall terminate on December 31, 2010.”
The 2012 amendment by D.C. Law 19-171 added “and § 42-3509.08.”
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90-day) amendment of section, see § 1202(b) of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-376, July 24, 2000, 47 DCR 6574).
For temporary (90 day) amendment of section, see § 1202(b) of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
For temporary (90 day) amendment, see § 4(a) of Abatement of Nuisance Properties and Tenant Receivership Emergency Amendment Act of 2008 (D.C. Act 17-420, July 8, 2008, 55 DCR 7703).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 4(b) of Abatement of Nuisance Properties and Tenant Receivership Emergency Amendment Act of 2008 (D.C. Act 17-420, July 8, 2008, 55 DCR 7703).
For temporary (90 day) amendment of section, see § 4(a) of Abatement of Nuisance Properties and Tenant Receivership Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2008 (D.C. Act 17-563, October 27, 2008, 55 DCR 12019).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 4(b) of Abatement of Nuisance Properties and Tenant Receivership Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2008 (D.C. Act 17-563, October 27, 2008, 55 DCR 12019).
For temporary (90 day) amendment of section, see § 2 of Rental Housing Act Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2010 (D.C. Act 18-675, December 28, 2010, 58 DCR 132).
For temporary (90 day) amendment of section, see § 2 of Rental Housing Act Extension Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2011 (D.C. Act 19-31, March 15, 2011, 58 DCR 2604).
Temporary Legislation
For temporary (225 day) amendment of section, see § 4(a) of Abatement of Nuisance Properties and Tenant Receivership Temporary amendment Act of 2008 (D.C. Law 17-237, October 21, 2008, law notification 55 DCR 11700).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35 - Rental Housing Generally › Subchapter IX - Miscellaneous Provisions › § 42–3509.09. Restrictions on tobacco smoking. [Repealed]

§ 42–3509.09. Restrictions on tobacco smoking. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(July 17, 1985, D.C. Law 6-10, § 909, formerly § 509; as added Mar. 22, 2019, D.C. Law 22-260, § 2, 66 DCR 1370; renumbered, June 24, 2020, D.C. Law 23-112, § 5(b), 67 DCR 5066; Nov. 13, 2021, D.C. Law 24-45, § 7168, 68 DCR 010163.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 22-260: According to the Council’s Budget Office, D.C. Law 22-260 shall apply upon the date of inclusion of its fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. The fiscal effect of D.C. Law 22-260 has not been included in an approved budget and financial plan, therefore the creation of this section by Law 22-260 has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.01. Short title

§ 42–3531.01. Short title.
This chapter may be cited as the “Office of the Chief Tenant Advocate Establishment Act”.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2061, 52 DCR 7503; Oct. 1, 2007, D.C. Law 16-181, § 2(a), 53 DCR 6703.)
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 16-181 deleted “of 2005” following “Act”.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2061 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
Effective Dates
Section 5 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “Section 2 through 4 shall apply as of October 1, 2007.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.02. Purpose

§ 42–3531.02. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish the Office of the Tenant Advocate as an independent agency to advocate on behalf of the education of, and outreach to, tenants and the people of the District.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2062, 52 DCR 7503; Oct. 1, 2007, D.C. Law 16-181, § 2(b), 53 DCR 6703.)
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 16-181 substituted “as an independent agency” for “as an office within the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs”.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2062 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
Effective Dates
Section 5 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “Section 2 through 4 shall apply as of October 1, 2007.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.03. Findings

§ 42–3531.03. Findings.
The Council finds that, despite the fact that the District has some of the most comprehensive pro-tenant laws in the United States:
(1) Tenants in the District are under-informed of their rights.
(2) It is difficult for tenants to obtain information.
(3) Tenants cannot usually afford legal representation.
(4) Tenants are under-informed about dispute mediation and adjudication options available to tenants in the District through the courts and through the Office of the Attorney General.
(5) Few tenants have time for self-advocacy because of their full-time employment.
(6) Tenants in the District need an independent Chief Tenant Advocate to act on their behalf as repository of information and resources to help guide tenants through the landlord-tenant system in the District.
(7) The establishment of an independent Office of the Tenant Advocate will provide a valuable resource for the government and residents of the District.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2063, 52 DCR 7503; Oct. 1, 2007, D.C. Law 16-181, § 2(c), 53 DCR 6703.)
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 16-181, in par. (6), substituted “independent Chief Tenant Advocate” for “office at the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs”; and, in par. (7), substituted “independent Office of the Tenant Advocate” for “Office of the Tenant Advocate within the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs”.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2063 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
Effective Dates
Section 5 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “Section 2 through 4 shall apply as of October 1, 2007.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.04. Definitions

§ 42–3531.04. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
(1) “Chief” means Chief Tenant Advocate established by § 42-3531.06.
(1A) "Closure order" means any order by a District agency requiring relocation of tenants.
(2) “Office” means the Office of the Tenant Advocate established by § 42-3531.05.
(2A) "Owner" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 47-802(5).
(3) Repealed.
(4) “Tenant” and “tenant organization” shall have the same meaning as in § 42-3401.03(17) and (18), and shall include any other tenant organization.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2064, 52 DCR 7503; May 2, 2015, D.C. Law 20-271, § 266(a), 62 DCR 1884; Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(a), 63 DCR 15307.)
Effect of Amendments
The 2015 amendment by D.C. Law 20-271 repealed (3).
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the changes made to this section by D.C. Law 21-211 have been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(a) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2064 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 266(a) of the New Columbia Statehood Initiative, Omnibus Boards and Commissions, and Election Transition Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2014 (D.C. Act 20-481, Nov. 18, 2014, 61 DCR 12133, 20 STAT 4405).
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 266(a) of the New Columbia Statehood Initiative, Omnibus Boards and Commissions, and Election Transition Reform Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2015 (D.C. Act 21-7, Feb. 26, 2015, 62 DCR 2646, 21 STAT 807).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.05. Establishment of Office of the Tenant Advocate

§ 42–3531.05. Establishment of Office of the Tenant Advocate.
The Office of the Tenant Advocate is established as an independent agency within the District government.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2065, 52 DCR 7503; Oct. 1, 2007, D.C. Law 16-181, § 2(d), 53 DCR 6703.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 42-3531.04.
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 16-181 substituted “independent agency within the District government” for “office within the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs”.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2065 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
Effective Dates
Section 5 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “Section 2 through 4 shall apply as of October 1, 2007.”
Editor's Notes
Transfer of functions of Office of the Tenant Advocate of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs: Section 4 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “All positions, property, records, and unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations, assessments, and other funds available or to be made available to the Office of the Tenant Advocate of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs relating to the duties and functions assigned herein are transferred to the independent Office of the Tenant Advocate.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.06. Chief Tenant Advocate of the Office of the Tenant Advocate

§ 42–3531.06. Chief Tenant Advocate of the Office of the Tenant Advocate.
(a) There shall be a Chief Tenant Advocate who shall be responsible for the administration of the Office and implementation of the duties of the Office.
(b)(1) On or after October 1, 2007, the Chief shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council for a term of 3 years, unless sooner removed by the Mayor for cause. Any unexpired term as of October 1, 2007 shall expire on that date.
(2) A person appointed to fill a vacancy of this office shall be appointed only for the unexpired term of the Chief whose vacancy is being filled.
(c)(1) The Chief shall be a statutory officeholder in the Excepted Service pursuant to § 1-609.08 and shall receive annual compensation under the Excepted Service salary schedule in an amount determined by the Mayor. No employee of the Office, other than the Chief, shall receive annual compensation above the level of that received by a District employee at a grade 14 under the District service salary schedule.
(2) The Chief shall be a resident of the District of Columbia or become a resident not more than 180 days after the date of appointment, and shall remain a resident.
(d) The Office shall employ the staff necessary, including attorneys, to assist the Chief in carrying out his or her duties.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2066, 52 DCR 7503; Oct. 1, 2007, D.C. Law 16-181, § 2(e), 53 DCR 6703; Sept. 11, 2019, D.C. Law 23-16, § 2042, 66 DCR 8621.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 42-3531.04.
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 16-181 rewrote subsec. (b); in subsec. (c)(2), substituted “and shall remain a resident” for “and shall remain a resident, unless temporarily or permanently exempted from these requirements by the Mayor or for good cause”; and, in subsec. (d), substituted “The Office shall employ the staff necessary, including attorneys,” for “The Office shall employ the staff necessary”. Prior to amendment, subsec. (b) read as follows: “(b) The Chief shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council. The Chief shall report directly to the Director of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.”
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 2042 of Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2019 (D.C. Act 23-112, Sept. 4, 2019, 66 DCR 11964).
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 2042 of Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2019 (D.C. Act 23-91, July 22, 2019, 66 DCR 8497).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2066 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
Effective Dates
Section 5 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “Section 2 through 4 shall apply as of October 1, 2007.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.08. Establishment, purpose, and membership of the Tenant Advisory Council. [Repealed]

§ 42–3531.08. Establishment, purpose, and membership of the Tenant Advisory Council. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068, 52 DCR 7503; May 2, 2015, D.C. Law 20-271, § 266(b), 62 DCR 1884.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2068 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of this section, see § 266(b) of the New Columbia Statehood Initiative, Omnibus Boards and Commissions, and Election Transition Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2014 (D.C. Act 20-481, Nov. 18, 2014, 61 DCR 12133, 20 STAT 4405).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of this section, see § 266(b) of the New Columbia Statehood Initiative, Omnibus Boards and Commissions, and Election Transition Reform Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2015 (D.C. Act 21-7, Feb. 26, 2015, 62 DCR 2646, 21 STAT 807).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.09. Housing Assistance Fund

§ 42–3531.09. Housing Assistance Fund.
The Housing Assistance Fund established by § 42-3403.07 [repealed] shall be administered and managed by the Office of the Tenant Advocate.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068a; as added Oct. 1, 2007, D.C. Law 16-181, § 2(g), 53 DCR 6703.)
Effective Dates
Section 5 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “Section 2 through 4 shall apply as of October 1, 2007.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.10. Rulemaking authority

§ 42–3531.10. Rulemaking authority.
The Office of the Chief Tenant Advocate shall promulgate rules, subject to Council approval, to implement the provisions of this chapter.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068b; as added Oct. 1, 2007, D.C. Law 16-181, § 2(g), 53 DCR 6703; Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(b), 63 DCR 15307.)
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the changes made to this section by D.C. Law 21-211 have been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(b) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
Effective Dates
Section 5 of D.C. Law 16-181 provided: “Section 2 through 4 shall apply as of October 1, 2007.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.11. Reimbursement of emergency housing and relocation expenses

§ 42–3531.11. Reimbursement of emergency housing and relocation expenses.
(a) If the Office has provided emergency housing or relocation assistance, as authorized by § 42-3531.07(6A), the owner shall reimburse the District for the assistance, as described in subsection (b) of this section, and all reasonable administrative and incidental expenses incurred by the District in providing the assistance, if:
(1) A closure order requires the housing unit occupied by the tenant to be vacated and closed; and
(2) The conditions that created the emergency:
(A) Arose from circumstances within the control of the owner, including conditions arising from the failure to perform maintenance on the premises, affirmative acts of the owner, or termination of water service or utility services provided by the owner;
(B) Did not arise from an act of God;
(C) Arose from the actions of a person within the control of the owner; and
(D) Were not caused solely by actions of the tenant.
(b) The District may seek reimbursement from an owner for emergency housing and relocation expenses for:
(1) The short-term relocation of tenants to hotels, motels, or other appropriate accommodations for a period of up to 180 days;
(2) Actual moving costs;
(3) The storage of personal property for a period of up to 180 days;
(4) Rental application fees, security deposits, and utility deposits; and
(5) The first month's rent.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068c; as added Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(c), 63 DCR 15307; Sept. 6, 2023, D.C. Law 25-50, § 2112, 70 DCR 10366.)
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-211 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(c) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.12. Assessment of expenses for emergency housing and relocation assistance

§ 42–3531.12. Assessment of expenses for emergency housing and relocation assistance.
(a)(1) The Chief shall submit a bill to the owner for the cost of providing emergency assistance or relocation assistance, including information on how the owner can pay the bill and, if the owner disputes the charge, how to contest the bill.
(2) The Chief may submit the bill to the owner by personal service or by sending it via first-class U.S. mail to the person who last appears as the owner of the real property on the tax roll on file with the Office of Tax and Revenue, to the last mailing address shown on the tax roll in accordance with § 42-405. The Chief may, by regulation, establish alternative methods of providing the bill to the owner.
(b) Within 30 calendar days after receipt of the bill, the owner shall:
(1) Pay the full amount of the bill; or
(2) Contest the bill and request a hearing to determine liability.
(c) If an owner fails to pay the full amount of the bill or to request a hearing within 30 days after receipt of the bill, the owner shall be liable for the full amount of the bill.
(d) For the purpose of this section, a mailed bill is presumed to have been received by the owner 7 calendar days after the date of mailing.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068d; as added Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(c), 63 DCR 15307.)
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-211 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(c) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.13. Hearing

§ 42–3531.13. Hearing.
(a) A hearing to determine liability for a bill shall be held before an administrative law judge within the Office of Administrative Hearings and shall be conducted in accordance with § 2-509.
(b) If an owner who requests a hearing fails to appear at a hearing, the administrative law judge may proceed with the hearing and issue a final decision in the case.
(c)(1) The administrative law judge shall decide whether the owner's liability for the amount of the bill, in whole or in part, has been established by a preponderance of the evidence.
(2) If an owner is found liable for any portion of the bill, the administrative law judge may impose an additional penalty of up to twice the amount of the liability for the bill.
(d) If an administrative law judge issues an order finding an owner liable, the owner shall pay the amount due within 30 days after the issuance of the order.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068e; as added Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(c), 63 DCR 15307.)
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-211 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(c) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.14. Collection

§ 42–3531.14. Collection.
The Attorney General for the District of Columbia may bring any appropriate legal action, or defend any action, to collect the amount owed by an owner pursuant to this chapter.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068f; as added Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(c), 63 DCR 15307.)
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-211 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(c) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.15. Liens

§ 42–3531.15. Liens.
(a) The amount for which an owner has been found liable, including any other charges, costs, penalties, and interest, shall be a continuing and perpetual lien in favor of the District upon all real and personal property belonging to the person named in the notice and shall have the same force and effect as a lien created by judgment. Interest shall accrue as provided in subsection (f) of this section.
(b) The lien shall attach to all property belonging to the owner during the period of the lien, including any property acquired by the owner after the lien arises.
(c) The lien shall have priority over any other lien, except a lien for District taxes and District water charges; provided, that the lien shall not be valid as against any bona fide purchaser, or holder of a security interest, mechanic's lien, or other such creditor interested in the property, without notice, until notice of the lien is filed with the Recorder of Deeds. The lien shall be satisfied by payment of the amount of the lien to the agency that issued the notice.
(d) For reasonable cause shown, the Chief may abate the amount owed by the owner pursuant to this chapter.
(e)(1) As additional means for collection, the Chief may enforce payment of the fines, expenses, costs, penalties, interest, or other charges imposed against the real property in the same manner and under the same conditions that real property tax liens are enforced pursuant to Chapter 13A of Title 47.
(2) Proceeds collected from a sale pursuant to Chapter 13A of Title 47 shall be credited to the Emergency Housing and Relocation Assistance Fund established by § 42-3531.16.
(f) Interest on an amount due pursuant to this section shall be at the rate of 1 1/2% per month, and shall be prorated if interest is owed for a portion of a month.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068g; as added Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(c), 63 DCR 15307.)
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-211 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(c) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35A - Rental Housing: Tenant Advocacy › § 42–3531.16. Emergency Housing and Relocation Assistance Fund

§ 42–3531.16. Emergency Housing and Relocation Assistance Fund.
(a) There is established as a special fund the Emergency Housing and Relocation Assistance Fund ("Fund"), which shall be administered by the Office of the Tenant Advocate in accordance with subsections (c) and (d) of this section.
(b) Revenue from interest, costs, expenses, fees, fines, penalties, and other charges collected pursuant to §§ 42-3531.11 through 42-3531.15 shall be deposited in the Fund.
(c) Money in the Fund shall be used to offset some of the costs of providing emergency housing and relocation assistance.
(d) The money deposited into the Fund, and interest earned, shall not revert to the unrestricted fund balance of the General Fund of the District of Columbia at the end of a fiscal year, or at any other time.
(Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 2068h; as added Feb. 18, 2017, D.C. Law 21-211, § 2(c), 63 DCR 15307.)
Applicability
Section 7023 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-211 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-211: § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(c) of D.C. Law 21-211 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 5 of D.C. Law 21-211, see § 7023 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35B - Fair Criminal Record Screening for Housing › § 42–3541.01. Definitions

§ 42–3541.01. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
(1) "Applicant" means any person considered for, who requests to be considered for, or who intends to request to be considered for tenancy within a housing accommodation.
(2) "Arrest" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 32-1341(2).
(3) "Conditional offer" means an offer to rent or lease a rental unit to an applicant that is:
(A) Contingent on the housing provider's subsequent inquiry into the applicant's criminal record; or
(B) Contingent on any other eligibility criteria that the housing provider may utilize.
(4) "Conviction" means a verdict or plea of guilty or nolo contendere.
(5) "Housing accommodation" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 42-3501.03(14).
(6) "Housing provider" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 42-3501.03(15).
(7) "Inquiry" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 32-1341(8).
(8) "Pending criminal accusation" shall mean "criminal accusation" as that term is defined in § 32-1341(5).
(9) "Rental unit" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 42-3501.03(33).
(Apr. 7, 2017, D.C. Law 21-259, § 2, 64 DCR 2070.)
Applicability
Section 7031 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-259 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-259: § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259 provided that the creation of this section by § 2 of D.C. Law 21-259 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259, see § 7031 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259, see § 7031 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35B - Fair Criminal Record Screening for Housing › § 42–3541.03. Exclusions

§ 42–3541.03. Exclusions.
This chapter shall not apply:
(1) To a housing provider that owns and occupies a housing accommodation that includes 3 or fewer rental units;
(2) Where a federal law or regulation or District law requires the consideration of an applicant's criminal history for the purposes of obtaining a housing accommodation; or
(3) Where a federal law or regulation or District law otherwise allows for denial of an applicant due to certain criminal convictions.
(Apr. 7, 2017, D.C. Law 21-259, § 4, 64 DCR 2070.)
Applicability
Section 7031 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-259 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-259: § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259 provided that the creation of this section by § 4 of D.C. Law 21-259 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259, see § 7031 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259, see § 7031 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 42 - Real Property › Chapter 35B - Fair Criminal Record Screening for Housing › § 42–3541.04. Filing a complaint with the Office of Human Rights; exclusive remedy

§ 42–3541.04. Filing a complaint with the Office of Human Rights; exclusive remedy.
(a) A person claiming to be aggrieved by a violation of this chapter may file an administrative complaint with the Office of Human Rights within one year after the unlawful discriminatory act, or discovery thereof, in accordance with the procedures set forth in subchapter III of Unit A of Chapter 14 of Title 2.
(b) A person claiming to be aggrieved by a violation of this chapter shall have no private cause of action in any court based on a violation of this chapter.
(Apr. 7, 2017, D.C. Law 21-259, § 5, 64 DCR 2070.)
Applicability
Section 7031 of D.C. Law 22-33 repealed § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259. Therefore the creation of this section by D.C. Law 21-259 has been implemented.
Applicability of D.C. Law 21-259: § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259 provided that the creation of this section by § 5 of D.C. Law 21-259 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259, see § 7031 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167, Oct. 24, 2017, 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90 days) repeal of § 11 of D.C. Law 21-259, see § 7031 of Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104, July 20, 2017, 64 DCR 7032).