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HB 377

CRIMINAL LAW-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

HB 377 clarifies how manufactured homes can be classified as real property, protecting homeowners' rights and preserving lienholders' interests in Georgia.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 377

Summary of HB 377: Buildings and Housing; Manufactured Homes; Provisions

Bill Number: HB 377
Introduced: February 10, 2025
Status: Senate Tabled

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 377 aims to amend existing laws regarding manufactured homes in Georgia. The bill seeks to clarify the circumstances under which a manufactured home can be classified as real property, establish procedures for the conversion of manufactured homes to real property status, and preserve the rights of lienholders and security interest holders in such homes.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically targeting the classification and treatment of manufactured homes:

  1. Classification of Manufactured Homes:

    • Manufactured homes are generally considered personal property unless they are permanently affixed to real property and meet specific criteria.
    • A manufactured home can become real property if:
      • It is permanently affixed to real property owned by the same individual who owns the home.
      • A Certificate of Permanent Location is filed with the appropriate authorities.

  2. Certificate of Permanent Location:

    • The bill outlines the requirements for filing a Certificate of Permanent Location, which includes details about the home, the owner, and any security interests.
    • Once filed, the home is treated as part of the real property, allowing for transfer and foreclosure in the same manner as real estate.

  3. Rights of Lienholders:

    • The bill ensures that the rights of prior holders of liens or security interests in manufactured homes are preserved even after the home is classified as real property.
    • Lienholders retain their rights to remove the home as personal property until their interests are satisfied.

  4. Procedural Changes:

    • The bill introduces specific notice and application requirements for the conversion of manufactured homes to real property status.

Impact

  • Homeowners: The bill provides clarity for homeowners regarding the status of their manufactured homes, potentially simplifying the process of converting their homes to real property.
  • Lienholders: By preserving the rights of lienholders, the bill protects their financial interests and ensures they can enforce their rights even after a home is classified as real property.
  • Local Governments: The amendments may require local governments to adjust their procedures for handling manufactured homes and related documentation.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 10, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
  • February 28, 2025: Bill passed in the House and sent to the Senate.
  • March 3, 2025: Senate read and referred to committee.
  • March 13, 2025: Senate committee favorably reported the bill.
  • March 18, 2025: Senate read a second time.
  • March 28, 2025: Senate recommitted for further consideration.
  • March 31, 2025: Senate committee favorably reported by substitute.
  • April 2, 2025: Bill tabled in the Senate.

Conclusion

HB 377 represents a significant step in clarifying the legal status of manufactured homes in Georgia, providing protections for homeowners and lienholders alike. The bill's progression through the legislative process reflects ongoing discussions about housing and property rights within the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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