FL H0053

Amends Florida law to require landlords to install and annually repair screens in reasonable condition, and adds criminal penalties (first-degree misdemeanor, or third-degree felony for repeat offenses) for violations of landlord maintenance obligations under section 83.51

Adds criminal penalties (first-degree misdemeanor, or third-degree felony for repeat offenses) for retaliatory conduct by landlords, including rent increases, service decreases, or eviction threats in response to tenant complaints, organization activities, or exercise of fair housing rights under section 83.64

Expands prohibited landlord practices under section 83.67 to include discrimination against servicemembers in rental offerings and terms, and prohibition against preventing tenant access through lock changes or bootlocks; adds criminal penalties (first-degree misdemeanor, or third-degree felony for repeat offenses)

Establishes civil liability for landlord violations of section 83.67 as actual and consequential damages or 3 months' rent (whichever is greater) plus attorney's fees and costs, with separate awards for subsequent violations

Takes effect October 1, 2016