Texas House Bill HB660

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to property owners' association fines.

Impact

The bill amends Chapter 209 of the Property Code, specifically by adding Section 209.0061, which outlines the responsibilities of property owners' associations and the expectations for their fine assessment policies. The law stipulates that the fines must be reasonable in relation to the nature and frequency of violations, ensuring that residents are not subjected to excessive penalties. Furthermore, associations are required to file copies of their fine policies with the county clerk, ensuring public accessibility to these documents.

Summary

House Bill 660 addresses fines imposed by property owners' associations (POAs) by requiring these associations to adopt a clear policy regarding the enforcement of fines. The bill mandates that the policy should disclose the types of violations that can incur fines, the amount of such fines, and necessary information about hearings related to these fines. This requirement aims to enhance transparency and consistency in how fines are applied and enforced across different property owners' associations in Texas.

Contention

While proponents of HB 660 argue that it will lead to fairer treatment of property owners and provide much-needed clarity in the enforcement of POA fines, there may be contention regarding the implementation of 'reasonable' fines and how that term is interpreted. Property owners' associations may vary significantly across the state, which could lead to different enforcement practices and complaints about inequity in how fines are administered. Additionally, some members may feel that this bill adds an unnecessary layer of regulation to local associations that should have the freedom to govern their own policies without state interference.