CA SB681

Prohibits landlords from charging fees beyond rent amount unless specifically listed in the rental agreement, with total additional fees capped at 5% of monthly rent; violators face civil liability for the fee amount plus 5% daily compounded interest

Creates new unlawful practices for subordinate mortgage servicers, including failing to communicate with borrowers for 3+ years or failing to provide required transfer notices; servicers must record compliance certifications before conducting nonjudicial foreclosures

Extends multiple housing development streamlining provisions indefinitely by removing sunset dates, including the 5-hearing limit for housing projects, 90/60-day approval timelines under the Permit Streamlining Act, and Housing Crisis Act of 2019 protections

Requires councils of governments to revise regional housing need allocation methodologies in consultation with the Department of Housing and Community Development if found inconsistent with objectives, removing the option to adopt without revision

Increases the renter's tax credit to $250 (no dependents) or $500 (with dependents) for taxable years 2026-2030 when specified in Budget Act legislation, with excess credit amounts refundable upon legislative appropriation