Louisiana Senate Bill SCR67

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/19/20
• Passed: 5/20/20
• Engrossed: 5/20/20
• Refer: 5/21/20
• Report Pass: 5/26/20

Caption

Requests that local governmental subdivisions consider manufactured home chassis elevation when setting requirements for freeboard purposes.

Impact

The resolution encourages local governments to adopt more flexible elevation criteria, which could significantly influence housing policies related to manufactured homes in flood-prone areas. By suggesting that the top of the chassis be used as the measurement point for freeboard requirements, SCR67 aims to balance safety concerns against the practical challenges faced by homeowners. The adaptation of such guidelines could facilitate better compliance for residents and support community members in accessing flood insurance, while potentially altering local building codes and regulations.

Summary

SCR67 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that addresses the elevation requirements for manufactured homes within the framework of local governmental regulations. Specifically, it urges local authorities in Louisiana to consider the top of the chassis of manufactured homes as an acceptable finished floor elevation when determining freeboard requirements. This recommendation aims to ease the installation hardships faced by residents who are constructing or placing manufactured homes, directly linking the elevation practices to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) standards.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SCR67 appears to be supportive, particularly for those advocating for the rights and needs of manufactured home owners. The resolution is particularly endorsed by groups who recognize the financial and logistical burdens imposed by stringent elevation requirements. However, it does not come without contention, as discussions regarding freeboard and building standards can often lead to concerns about flood risk management and loss of property value in affected areas.

Contention

Despite its supportive sentiment among advocates for manufactured homeowners, some local governments may still hesitate to adopt recommendations from SCR67, given the complexities associated with modifying elevation requirements. There may be apprehension surrounding the implications for flood safety and insurance eligibility, particularly in regions prone to flooding. Thus, while the resolution seeks to alleviate hardships for residents, it underscores an ongoing debate about balancing accessibility in housing against robust flood risk mitigation strategies.