Texas Bill Requiring Landlords to Maintain Elevators Progresses

A bill that would require landlords in Texas to keep elevators in working condition passed in the Texas Senate on May 7, KHOU 11 reported. Senator Carol Alvarado authored Senate Bill 1802, which would protect seniors and tenants with disabilities. The bill would require landlords to maintain mobility assistance devices including elevators, ramps and handrails that were available when a lease was signed. The legislation would provide consequences for when landlords fail to make repairs, including lease termination without penalty, rent deductions, judicial relief and alternative housing at no cost, closing existing loopholes and ensuring tenants have enforceable legal options when mobility assistance features fail. SB 1802 will now go to the Texas House for a vote.