An Act To Establish The Maine Rental Assistance And Guarantee Program And Amend The Laws Regarding Tenants And The Municipal General Assistance Program

This bill creates a new commission in Maine dedicated to improving relationships between landlords and tenants who use rental assistance programs like housing vouchers. The commission will consist of 14 appointed members representing diverse groups, including legislators, advocates for tenants and landlords, legal experts, and individuals with direct experience using rental assistance. Its primary duties involve investigating discrimination against renters based on their income source, reviewing existing incentives for landlords, and exploring ways to increase the availability of housing for assisted tenants. The commission is required to submit a final report with its findings and legislative recommendations by November 2024.