GA HB1649

Declares restrictive covenants based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin void and contrary to public policy, and makes recording such covenants for the express purpose of discrimination a misdemeanor

Establishes a restrictive covenant modification process allowing property owners to submit redaction forms to county recorders, who must consult with legal counsel before recording modifications; requires each county recorder to establish a restrictive covenant program with an implementation plan due by July 1, 2023, and the Superior Court Clerks' Association to submit progress reports to the General Assembly by January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025

Prohibits residential landlords from refusing to rent, setting rental rates, or taking adverse action against tenants or prospective tenants based solely on credit information or absence thereof, while allowing consideration of residential rental payment history

Authorizes courts to seal court files in dispossessory actions found to be sufficiently without basis in fact or law, and requires sealing when the action involved a tenant holding over in a foreclosed property who vacated before the action or was not given a proper demand for possession

Requires the Department of Community Affairs to employ a housing benefits specialist to advise the public on affordable and fair housing resources and a residential landlord complaint specialist to accept complaints, make referrals, and publish an annual report on complaints received, with translation services provided to both employees