INDIANAPOLIS - A new state law coauthored by State Senator Karen Tallian (D-Portage) increases the penalties if a landlord fails to properly install or maintain smoke detectors in rental housing. Tallian said Public Law 17 (Senate Enrolled Act 26) was needed to ensure that Hoosier families living in apartments or rental homes were protected from unnecessary danger through the use of fire alarms.
As of July 1, a landlord could be charged with a Class B Infraction for failure to properly install a smoke detector at the time a tenant moves into a unit or to repair a smoke detector within seven days of receiving notice of the need for repair. A Class B Infraction can be punished with a fine of up to $1,000. Subsequent offenses can be charged as Class A Infractions, punished with a maximum fine of $10,000 for each charge.
"The new law will give teeth to protections that were already on the books," Tallian said. "A smoke detector that isn't working is as dangerous as one not installed at all. For their own safety, tenants need to be vigilant and ensure that smoke detectors work and to report repair needs to their landlord."
The new law stipulates that landlords and tenants cannot waive the requirement for a smoke detector and specifies that the tenant would be responsible for replacing batteries when needed.
Other new laws that will become effective on July 1:
Automatic payment of property taxes: Public Law 118 (Senate Enrolled Act 208), authored by Tallian, allows counties to provide homeowners with the option of paying property taxes through an automatic deduction from a checking account or any other method of installment payment.
Domestic violence cooling off period: Public Law 44 (Senate Enrolled Act 27) will require anyone arrested for domestic violence to remain in custody for at least eight hours before being released on bail. This measure was enacted to allow families the time they need to access services while the accused abuser remains in custody.
For more information on Senator Tallian, her legislative agenda or other State Senate business call 1-800-382-9467 or visit http://www.senatedemocrats.in.gov/.
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