AZ HB2682

Establishes a rental assistance program administered by the Arizona Department of Economic Security for tenants facing unexpected financial emergencies who have at least one child under 18 living in the rental home.

Eligible tenants must have lived in the rental home for at least 12 months, not be more than two months behind on rent, not receive rental assistance from other sources, and show proof of income to pay rent going forward.

Limits rental assistance to once every 12 months per tenant, with a maximum of two months' rent or $5,000, whichever is less, paid directly to the landlord.

Requires the department to approve or deny applications within five business days and prohibits landlords who accept the assistance from evicting tenants for nonpayment during the covered months.

Appropriates $5,000,000 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2026-2027 for the program, with the appropriation exempt from lapsing provisions.