DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - The Iowa Senate has passed legislation that would prevent landlords from evicting crime victims who contact law enforcement for help.
The Democratic-controlled Senate voted unanimously 50-0 Wednesday for the bill, which would create rules for how cities and counties must handle cases of emergency assistance involving crime victims. The Republican-majority House previously passed the bill, and it will return to that chamber with some changes.
Advocacy groups say Iowa law is vague and allows cities and counties to enforce housing ordinances with certain rules involving nuisances. The groups say those nuisance rules can allow landlords to purposely evict crime victims, including domestic violence victims.
Lawmakers say the latest bill version would ensure crime victims are protected and allow cities and counties to enforce housing rules that maintain safety.
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