Relating to screening by a landlord of applicants for residential tenancies.

HB 3198 requires landlords in Texas to provide applicants with a written notice detailing their rental selection criteria and grounds for denial (including criminal history, rental history, income, credit, and incomplete applications) before accepting an application fee. The notice must also state that applicants may submit evidence regarding inaccuracies in criminal history, rehabilitation, or other mitigating factors. Landlords who violate this requirement face liability for $500 plus attorney fees. The law takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies only to applications submitted on or after that date. This bill directly affects residential landlords and tenants in Texas rental applications.