1. (a)

   1. (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
   2. (2) “Affected dwelling unit” has the meaning stated in § 7-309 of the Public Utilities Article.
   3. (3) “Landlord” has the meaning stated in § 7-309 of the Public Utilities Article.
   4. (4) “Tenant” has the meaning stated in § 7-309 of the Public Utilities Article.
   5. (5) “Utility service” has the meaning stated in § 7-309 of the Public Utilities Article.
   6. (6) “Utility service provider” has the meaning stated in § 7-309 of the Public Utilities Article.

2. (b) A tenant may deduct from rent due to a landlord the amount of payments made to a utility service provider for utility service if:

   1. (1) An oral or written lease for an affected dwelling unit requires the landlord to pay the utility bill; and

   2. (2)

      1. (i) The tenant pays all or part of the utility bill, including payments made on a new utility service account; or
      2. (ii) The tenant pays any security deposit required to obtain a new utility service account.
3. (c) A tenant's rights under this section may not be waived in any lease.

Added by Acts 2013, c. 326, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2014; Acts 2013, c. 327, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2014.