Bill > SB998

This bill establishes limits on how much a mobile home park owner can increase rent annually for existing residents, generally capping increases at the rate of inflation (Consumer Price Index) or 4%, whichever is lower. However, park owners can seek approval from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for rent increases exceeding these limits if the increase is necessary to cover "extraordinary expenses," which are defined as significant, non-recurring costs like major infrastructure repairs, utility system failures, or government-mandated improvements. To request such an increase, park owners must submit a detailed petition to the DHCD, including a written explanation and supporting documentation, and must also notify affected residents of the proposed increase and a 45-day comment period. The DHCD is required to make a decision on the petition within 120 days of receiving it, and any approved rent increase cannot be implemented sooner than 120 days after the petition was filed. The bill also prohibits park owners from retaliating against residents for participating in a homeowners association, filing complaints, providing testimony, or exercising their legal rights, and grants the DHCD authority to investigate complaints, issue compliance orders, impose penalties, and refer violations to the Attorney General for enforcement.