Bill > S1019

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for manufactured housing communities in Massachusetts, focusing on creating a new Manufactured Housing Commission and dispute resolution program. The bill creates a 5-member commission appointed by the governor, attorney general, and housing director, with specific requirements for members' backgrounds, including having representatives from manufactured housing residents and owners, and attorneys with expertise in housing and landlord-tenant law. The commission will have an annual reporting requirement and will oversee a new dispute resolution program where residents, owners, or operators can file complaints about community rules or potential violations. A new Manufactured Housing Trust Fund will be established, funded by licensing fees, to support the dispute resolution program and potentially compensate commission members. The bill also introduces several key protections for manufactured housing residents, such as prohibiting community owners from restricting residents' choices of service providers, requiring community rule changes to be reviewed by the attorney general, and preventing licensing fees or dispute resolution costs from being passed on to residents through rent increases. Additionally, the bill mandates that the licensed installer of a manufactured home cannot also serve as the licensed inspector for the same home, adding an extra layer of oversight to ensure proper installation and safety.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1019