FL H0301

Creates a local government risk mitigation program allowing counties and eligible municipalities to establish landlord reimbursement programs for property damage and unpaid rent through their local housing assistance plans.

Authorizes landlords to file claims for property damage of less than $300 without inspection, or $300-$2,000 for 1-bedroom units and $300-$3,000 for multi-bedroom units with inspection, capped at 75 percent reimbursement after security deposits or insurance are applied.

Allows landlords to claim reimbursement for unit holding fees ($150 for 14 days or $250 for 30 days), up to 3 months of unpaid rent, or up to 2 months rent for abandoned units, all for leases signed on or after September 1, 2018.

Modifies local housing assistance plan fund allocation percentages by reducing the rental housing allocation from 40 percent to 25 percent and increasing construction/rehabilitation allocation from 60 percent to 75 percent, with up to 10 percent of rental funds available for the new risk mitigation program if matched by local funds.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.