Bill > SB0935

This bill, amending the Mobile Home Commission Act, introduces several changes aimed at improving protections and clarity for mobile home park residents and operators. Key provisions include requiring the department to conduct annual physical inspections of mobile home parks and to report any material deficiencies to local governments and secured parties, with the possibility of charging a reinspection fee for parks needing further inspection due to these deficiencies. It also clarifies that variances to park rules can only be granted by the commission and that records of variances must be kept. The bill expands the responsibilities of mobile home installers and repairers by requiring the department to establish training and qualification standards for them, while also clarifying exemptions for licensed skilled trades. Furthermore, it prohibits unfair and deceptive practices by park owners, such as charging unauthorized entrance or exit fees, requiring purchases from specific vendors, and imposing excessive utility charges or electronic payment mandates, and mandates that park owners provide utility rate information upon request. The bill also introduces new requirements for lease agreements, mandating that park owners offer leases of at least one year to prospective tenants and include an option to renew for existing residents, with specific conditions for non-renewal or changes to lease terms, and requires utility companies to notify the department before shutting off service to a park due to nonpayment by the owner, to protect residents.