Michigan Senate Bill SB0488

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/13/23
• Refer: 9/13/23
• Report Pass: 6/12/24
• Refer: 6/12/24

Caption

Mobile homes: other; procedure for declaring a mobile home abandoned; provide for. Amends 1987 PA 96 (MCL 125.2301 - 125.2350) by adding sec. 30j. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0486'23, SB 0490'23, SB 0487'23, SB 0489'23

Impact

The bill significantly alters the legal framework surrounding mobile home ownership and tenancy in mobile home parks. By establishing clear criteria and a formal process for declaring abandonment, it seeks to protect mobile home park owners from potential losses associated with unoccupied or unpaid lots. However, this change also imposes responsibilities on park owners to ensure compliance with valuation standards and notification requirements before taking action against a resident's home.

Summary

Senate Bill 488 amends the 1987 Mobile Home Commission Act, introducing a formal procedure for mobile home park owners to declare resident-owned mobile homes as abandoned. The bill specifies the circumstances under which a mobile home can be declared abandoned, including a court order restoring possession to the park owner, a lack of occupancy for 90 days, delinquent rent, and the owner having a valid license for the park. This addition aims to streamline the process for mobile home park owners while clarifying expectations for residents and any lienholders involved.

Contention

Notably, SB 488 raises potential points of contention regarding tenant rights and protections. While the bill aims to provide clarity for park owners, critics may argue that it could lead to unjust abandonment declarations, particularly for low-income residents who may struggle with payments. The requirement for fair market evaluations and notifications adds a layer of bureaucracy intended to protect homeowners, yet the effectiveness of these measures in real-world scenarios may be disputed among stakeholders.