Pennsylvania House Bill HB2149

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/25/24
• Refer: 3/25/24
• Refer: 4/9/24

Caption

In creation, alteration and termination of planned communities, further providing for amendment of declaration; and, in management of planned community, further providing for executive board members and officers, for bylaws, for meetings, for voting and proxies, for association records and for complaints filed with Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2149 would have a direct impact on state laws regarding community associations. It is intended to streamline the operation of these associations by clarifying the rules that govern meetings, voting procedures, and the management of association records. This bill also aims to improve the process for filing complaints with the Bureau of Consumer Protection, indicating a push for greater consumer rights and protection in the realm of property management within planned communities.

Summary

House Bill 2149 aims to update and refine the regulatory framework surrounding planned communities, particularly focusing on the processes of creation, alteration, and termination of such communities. By addressing the governance aspects of planned community associations, the bill seeks to enhance transparency and efficiency in their management. Furthermore, it proposes amendments to improve the governance of executive board members and officers, ensuring that bylaws are clear and accessible for all members of the community.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2149 appears to be generally supportive, with particularly strong backing from stakeholders involved in community management and consumer rights advocacy. Supporters believe the bill will provide necessary reforms that enhance the user experience in planned communities. Conversely, some concerns were raised regarding the potential for over-regulation and the implications of changes to existing bylaws, which could create friction among residents and association members over how these rules are implemented.

Contention

Notable points of contention during discussions of HB 2149 included debates over the balance of power between residents and executive boards in planned communities. Critics expressed concerns that while the bill aims to protect consumers, it might inadvertently empower boards at the expense of individual homeowners’ rights. This highlights the ongoing tension in community governance, as stakeholders aim to find an equitable resolution to the multifaceted challenges posed by community association management.