Several new laws have been passed in Rhode Island which focus on housing rentals.
One of the bills directs the Secretary of Housing to create a consumer guide that outlines the rights and responsibilities of tenants.
State Senator Ana Quezada says renters will be able to better-protect themselves from predatory landlords, but she adds that both sides will benefit.
Also, tenants will now be able to pay their rent into an escrow account if lead hazards are not being addressed in their homes.
Landlords won't be able to access the funds until they remediate the issue.
One other law that was passed by the state legislature earlier this summer will eliminate housing rental application fees.
(Photo by INA FASSBENDER/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: INA FASSBENDER / AFP / Getty Images