ATLANTA – State Representative Sandra Scott (D-Rex) today announced that she will reintroduce a package of housing legislation during the 2025 legislative session to safeguard property owners and tenants.
“This legislative initiative comes in response to the urgent calls for support from Georgia citizens and would offer tangible relief to those at risk of losing their homes,” said Rep. Scott. “It is poised to provide vital assistance to numerous Georgia residents in maintaining their homes. The pressing need for support among our citizens is evident, and the proposed measures offer tangible relief to many. I’ve listened to the pleas of constituents throughout Georgia who have found themselves vulnerable to the actions of HOAs, landlords and attorneys, seizing their homes through unwarranted fees and assessments despite meeting their mortgage and tax obligations. It’s unacceptable that such practices are permitted in our state, and I am deeply troubled by this exploitation by HOAs and landlords.”
The legislative package includes four bills aimed at addressing various aspects of property ownership, taxation and tenant-landlord relationships:
House Bill 322, or the Ad Valorem Taxation Amendment, would focus on ensuring transparency and fairness in property tax bills by prohibiting the inclusion of non-tax-related fees or assessments. It would mandate that property tax bills solely reflect ad valorem assessments, separating out any other fees or charges. The bill also specifies procedures for partial payments.
House Bill 1059, or the Georgia Tenant Protection and Mediation Act, would enhance protections for residential tenants. This bill would introduce residential eviction diversion programs for disabled and low-income persons. It would provide mediation as a means to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants, mandates landlord participation in mediation and outlines procedures for dispossessory proceedings.
House Bill 1032, or the Property Owners Rights and Accountability Act, would repeal certain provisions related to liens on condominiums and lots concerning property association fees and assessments. It would provide a short title, make conforming changes and ensure property owner rights are upheld.
Finally, House Bill 965, or the Tenant Protection and Rental Notice Enhancement Act, would require landlords to provide tenants with a written notice of intention to increase rent at least 60 days prior to the expiration of the lease term. This bill would enhance tenant protections in rental agreements.
“These bills underscore the Georgia General Assembly’s commitment to promoting fairness, transparency and accountability in the housing sector,” added Rep. Scott. “As they progress through the legislative process, stakeholders across the state are encouraged to engage in discussions and provide input to shape housing policies that benefit all Georgians.”
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as the Minority Caucus Chief Deputy Whip. She also serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
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