By State Representative Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain)
(363 words)
As the debate surrounding House Bill 220 unfolds, I remain steadfast in my commitment to protecting the American dream of homeownership. With a resolute focus on transparency, accountability and due process, I will continue to advocate for measures that empower homeowners and ensure their voices are heard within condominium and property owners’ associations (POAs).
There is a pressing need to address the systemic barriers that prevent homeowners from accessing vital documents, financial statements and legal representation. For far too long, homeowners have been denied the fundamental right to transparency and accountability within their associations, leaving them vulnerable to potential abuses and injustices.
In the pursuit of homeownership, every individual deserves access to essential information and the right to fair treatment under the law. Yet, many homeowners find themselves in a David-versus-Goliath scenario, unable to access vital documents or afford legal representation in disputes with their associations.
Indeed, the current landscape often places homeowners at a significant disadvantage, particularly when it comes to navigating complex legal proceedings against well-funded condominiums and POAs. In many cases, homeowners are forced to finance their private attorneys while simultaneously footing the bill for the association’s legal representation, creating an untenable financial burden.
As legislators, it is our duty to level the playing field and ensure that homeowners have access to the resources and protections they need to defend their rights. HB 220, in its current form, fails to address the systemic inequities that plague our communities, perpetuating a cycle of injustice and disenfranchisement.
We must incorporate provisions into legislation that uphold the principles of transparency, accountability and due process. By empowering homeowners with access to vital documents, financial statements and legal representation, legislators can foster a culture of fairness, integrity and democracy within associations.
In opposing HB 220, my primary objective is to champion the rights and aspirations of homeowners. We must not waver in our commitment to safeguarding the American dream of homeownership, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and prosper in their own home. As the debate over HB 220 rages on, I will continue to stand steadfast in my commitment to Georgia homeowners and amplify their voices by advocating for legislative reforms.
*Editor’s Note: A picture of Rep. Davis is attached.
Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes portions of DeKalb County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Insurance, Interstate Cooperation, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.
###