ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A bill that would improve tenant safety in apartment buildings is one step closer after passing a final committee hearing in Tallahassee Monday.
Senate Bill 998 and House Bill 588, known collectively as “Miya’s Law,” passed the state Senate Appropriations and the state House Commerce committees.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
The bills, sponsored by state Senator Linda Stewart (D - Orlando) and state Representative Robin Bartleman (D - Weston), would improve tenant safety in apartment buildings through background screenings of employees.
Miya’s Law refers to Miya Marcano, a former Valencia College student who was found murdered in Orlando last October.
READ: Florida lawmakers, Miya Marcano’s family rally in favor of increasing renter safety
Investigators said Armando Caballero, a maintenance worker at Arden Villas where Marcano lived, is believed to be the person responsible for kidnapping and killing Marcano.
Detectives said Caballero used his master key to wait for Miya in her apartment before abducting her.
Stewart, whose district covers the area where Miya lived, said she was thrilled with the committee’s decision.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes, and today’s unanimous vote brings us a step closer to establishing important protections for all renters,” said Stewart.
The bill now moves to the House and Senate floors where it will receive its final votes.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
©2022 Cox Media Group
