A group of Georgia lawmakers has announced a package of housing reform bills aimed at addressing issues faced by homeowners and tenants across the state. The proposed legislation targets what they describe as abusive practices by Homeowner Associations (HOAs), Property Owners Associations (POAs), and Condominium Associations, along with concerns over property tax assessments and eviction policies.
The legislative package includes several measures designed to increase transparency and accountability within community associations. Among the proposals are the Community Association Transparency & Protection Act, which would establish an ombudsman for HOAs, POAs, and condo associations; the Homeowner & Community Association Accountability Act, creating a division to investigate complaints and enforce fair practices; and additional acts raising foreclosure thresholds, banning insider deals, requiring fair dispute resolution, and guaranteeing homeowner access to association financial records.
Lawmakers are also proposing changes in how property is assessed for tax purposes. The Transparency in Property Assessments Act would require assessors to disclose properties used in valuations and prohibit corporate sales from influencing residential taxes.
Additional bills aim to protect property owners from abusive foreclosures due to unpaid fees and establish mediation programs for tenants facing eviction. Another measure seeks to expand access to solar energy while promoting local job creation.
Supporters of the reforms say that these measures respond directly to constituent demands for action on long-standing housing issues in Georgia. “We are fighting for families across Georgia to protect the American Dream of homeownership. Too many homeowners have been stripped of their rights by unregulated HOAs and unfair business practices. This package is about transparency, accountability and putting people before profits.”
“No Georgian should lose their home over abusive fees, unfair taxes or predatory evictions. We are standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the people, demanding reforms that protect homeowners and tenants,” according to supporters of the bill package.
“This is a fight for fairness—and we won’t back down. Our constituents sent us here to fight for them, not to be silenced by artificial limits on how many bills we can file. The 10-bill cap is a barrier to justice. Housing is a human right, and we are committed to delivering solutions, no matter what obstacles are in our way.”
“We’re urging Georgians to stand with us in demanding fairness, transparency and accountability in housing. Constituents are encouraged to learn more about the bills and voice their support.”
One of those involved in advancing such efforts is Jon G. Burns—a Republican elected in 2005 who represents Georgia’s 159th House District after succeeding Ray Holland (https://www.house.ga.gov/representatives/en-US/member.aspx?Member=95&Session=27).
The legislators encourage residents throughout Georgia who have experienced difficulties related to HOAs or housing policies to participate in ongoing discussions about these reforms.
