Selina Bliss's Short-Term Rental Bill Enforcement Passes Committee

State Representative Selina Bliss's (R-1) House Bill 2429 has passed the Arizona House Commerce Committee.

The bill clarifies state and local laws pertaining to vacation and short-term rental properties in Arizona, including a statewide occupancy standard of two adults per sleeping area plus two additional adults (minors are not included).

Other provisions include occupancy rules for overnight guests and an expansion of the enforcement lookback period from one year to two years, allowing permit or license suspension after three verified violations within two years, rather than one.

Additionally, suspension is allowed if a building has a building or health code violation verified as a severe threat to health and public safety, such as unpermitted construction, modification, or alteration, or failure to remedy unsafe or unsanitary conditions.

Finally, cities and towns may deny short-term rental permits to anyone with unpaid fines or civil penalties associated with that property under local short-term rental ordinances, and must conduct sex offender background checks.

"Neighbors deserve peace and basic safety in their own homes," said Rep. Bliss a her press release. "HB 2429 gives cities and towns clear authority to stop bad actors, enforce building and safety rules, and hold repeat violators accountable, without punishing responsible property owners who follow the law. This bill restores order where it's been missing and gives communities tools they have needed for years."

The bill's passage out of committee follows another property-centric bill, SB 1633, which passed the Arizona Senate last week.

SB 1633 eliminates state income taxes on profits from selling a primary home, a move supporters say could help homeowners make life changes without worrying about tax consequences.

"Taxing gains on a primary residence can trap people in homes that no longer work for them," said State Senator J.D. Mesnard (R-13). "Seniors may delay downsizing. Families may stay in houses that are too large, too small, or too far from work. Workers may think twice about relocating for a better opportunity."