Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1054

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
1/16/23  
Refer
1/19/23  
Engrossed
2/6/23  
Refer
2/8/23  
Report Pass
3/22/23  
Refer
1/23/24  
Report Pass
2/15/24  
Enrolled
3/6/24  
Chaptered
3/18/24  

Caption

Addressing the authority of owners' associations in common interest communities to regulate or limit occupancy by unrelated persons.

Impact

The passage of HB 1054 is likely to have a significant impact on state laws governing homeowners' associations and community living standards. By defining the extent of authority that these associations hold, the bill aims to provide clearer guidelines for occupancy regulations, which can foster more harmonious living arrangements in multifamily or community-owned properties. These changes could also influence legal disputes related to occupancy rights and the enforcement of association rules.

Summary

House Bill 1054 addresses the authority of owners' associations in common interest communities regarding the regulation or limitation of occupancy by unrelated persons. This legislation seeks to clarify the powers that homeowners' associations have in setting occupancy rules, thereby providing more structured governance for such communities. The bill's intent is to ensure that owners' associations can effectively manage their communities while balancing the rights of individual property owners.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1054 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill argue that it strengthens the ability of homeowners' associations to enforce rules that help maintain property values and community standards. However, there are concerns that such powers might lead to restrictive practices against unrelated individuals living together, which can impact housing availability and personal freedoms. Discussions around the bill show a divide between the interests of community self-governance and the rights of individual residents.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the fear that increased authority of homeowners' associations could lead to discrimination against certain groups of residents, particularly those who may share living spaces but are unrelated by family. Critics argue that associations might misuse this authority to enforce stricter rules that could infringe on personal freedoms, while supporters contend that these regulations are necessary for maintaining community integrity. The bill thus raises important questions about the balance of power between community governance and individual rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1199

Addressing licensed child care in common interest communities.

WA HB1569

Protecting unit owners in common interest communities.

WA HB1501

Concerning inquiries into association governance or operations by unit owners in common interest communities.

WA HB1043

Concerning association records in common interest communities.

WA SB5129

Concerning common interest communities.

WA SB5796

Concerning common interest communities.

WA SB5973

Concerning heat pumps in common interest communities.

WA HB1101

Providing for tenant screening in common interest communities.

WA HB1500

Concerning resale certificates for units in common interest communities.

WA SB5727

Providing protections for consumers engaging with common interest communities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.