Tenant hot line.

The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs shall provide for the continuation of a tenant hot line. The primary purpose of the tenant hot line is to provide assistance to low- and moderate-income tenants. To carry out this purpose, the functions and responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, the following: Answering rent control procedural questions, and directing tenants toward possible courses of action in resolving problems; Providing advice on housing regulation violations; Explaining rent increases; Providing guidance on emergency shelter; Providing guidance on the Tenant Assistance Program; Providing guidance in resolving problems involving water, heating, repairs, and other matters; Providing advice on possible action in response to allegations of discrimination, harassment, or neglect by housing providers; Answering preliminary questions about remedies through the courts; Providing guidance when tenants are faced with eviction; and Providing guidance on other tenant problems.