Georgia communities could be seeing major changes in homeowner association (HOA) and rent regulations if lawmakers have their way. Last Thursday, Sen. Donzella James, chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Urban Affairs, led a discussion focused on the issues many Georgians face in their community associations. Rent control and HOA crises, such as overwhelming fines and swift foreclosures, were among the highlighted problems. In a recent meeting, as reported by Senate Press, Sen. James emphasized the importance of reform, stating, "The people have spoken loud and clear: we need HOA regulation reform."
Several bipartisan solutions are already being juggled across the Senate floor. Sen. James, having sponsored bills aiming to untangle the grip of overly aggressive community associations, is seeking an ombudsman for oversight and improved legal safeguards for homeowners. Concurrently, Sen. Matt Brass is diving into HOA policy through his Senate Rules Subcommittee on Homeowners Associations.
Critical legislative proposals are set for further discussions in the 2026 Legislative Session. Senate Bill 106 looks to lift local government handicaps on rent controls while SB 107 and SB 108 are drafted to protect homeowners against liens and to enforce a harmonious resolution process before families find themselves in the turmoil of foreclosures. These bills currently await their turn for action, having been delegated to their respective Senate Committees.
An additional piece of legislation, SB 361, ups the ante on foreclosure costs, raising it to a steep $4,000. It also demands that the Secretary of State lay down the law for administrative hearings. As revealed by Senate Press, Sen. James co-sponsored this bill which is earmarked for further scrutiny by the Senate Rules Subcommittee on Homeowners Associations in the upcoming session.
