Safe Housing for Survivors (HB 72)

No victim should have to choose between their safety and their future financial stability

After violent victimization, many victims and their families may be in continued danger if they stay in their current housing. For example, they may need to break a lease to relocate or change their locks to stay safe. Staying in the home may compound a survivor’s trauma, or expose the survivor and their family to further violence. 

But, without permission, ending a lease early can hurt credit scores, lead to costly and stressful legal issues and make it nearly impossible for people to find new housing. Victims also need to be able to call for emergency help, without fear that calling 911 could result in eviction. 

Helping victims maintain safe and stable housing in the aftermath of violence

Most Pennsylvania crime victims are not protected if they need to relocate — but no victim should have to choose between their safety and their future financial stability. Safe Housing for Survivors (HB 72) would:

• Permit victims of violent crimes and their close family members to lawfully terminate residential leases when they need to relocate as a result of the crime
• Require the victim to provide notice to the landlord of the intention to relocate, and documentation of the victimization
• Allow the tenant to change their locks if a victim or their loved one wishes to remain in the home but fears for their safety
• Protect victims and their loved ones from rent increases, refusals to rent, or evictions due to their status as a victim, making emergency calls for help, or because the victim lawfully relocated or requested a lock change following the crime.