Bill 266: Nova Scotia Rent Bank Act

This bill primarily affects tenants in Nova Scotia who rent residential housing and are struggling with rent arrears, utility bills, or securing new rental housing — think a single parent working part-time, or a gig worker who had a slow month and fell behind on rent. Landlords are indirectly affected because financial assistance is paid directly to them, improving the likelihood of receiving overdue rent without going through eviction proceedings. Not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, and public bodies could be contracted as local service providers, taking on administrative and delivery roles under agreements with the provincial government. Essential utility providers (electricity, heating, natural gas, water) may also receive direct payments on behalf of tenants to prevent disconnection.