Utility services: electronic communication.
The amendment could have broad implications for both tenants and mobilehome park management. By allowing electronic notifications, the bill aims to modernize communication and potentially increase efficiency in the management of utility service alerts. However, it balances this with the requirement of obtaining explicit consent from the affected parties, ensuring that residents have control over how they receive important notifications regarding their utility services.
Assembly Bill 661, introduced by Joe Patterson, seeks to amend Section 798.42 of the Civil Code, which regulates utility service interruptions in mobilehome parks. The current law mandates that management must provide a written notice to all affected homeowners and residents at least 72 hours before any interruption of utility service exceeding two hours, provided that it is not an emergency situation. AB661 introduces a significant change by allowing management to provide such notice through electronic communication methods, such as email, text, or automated calls, contingent upon the voluntary, written consent of the homeowner or resident.
The sentiment surrounding AB661 appears to support the modernization of communication practices within mobilehome parks, particularly among management entities advocating for greater flexibility in notifying residents. However, there may also be concerns from tenant rights advocates regarding the implications of allowing electronic notices, particularly for individuals who may not have reliable access to electronic communications or who prefer traditional written notifications, which could lead to debates about equity and inclusivity in tenant rights.
Notable points of contention could arise regarding the definition of 'voluntary, written consent' and how it can be ensured that all residents are adequately informed and agree to the electronic notification process. Additionally, the management's obligation to provide written notices if consent is not granted raises questions about compliance and enforcement in practice. Overall, the bill highlights the need to strike a balance between effective communication and the protection of tenant rights within mobilehome parks.