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HB 2151

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; revises definition of community land trust.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Betsy Carr

Virginia law redefines community land trusts under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, effective July 2025, potentially expanding affordable housing program eligibility and participation.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0028)
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Bill Summary · HB 2151

Legislative bill overview

HB 2151 modifies Virginia's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act by revising the legal definition of "community land trust" (CLT). The bill became law on July 1, 2025, after receiving gubernatorial approval in March. The specific definitional changes expand or clarify what qualifies as a CLT under Virginia housing law.

Why is this important

Community land trusts are non-profit organizations that acquire and hold land to make housing more affordable by separating land ownership from home ownership. Clarifying the CLT definition affects which organizations can operate under CLT regulations, potentially expanding access to affordable housing programs and tax benefits in Virginia. This has direct implications for affordable housing policy implementation and which entities can participate in CLT programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of definition: Stakeholders may disagree on whether the revised definition is too broad (potentially including entities that shouldn't qualify) or too narrow (excluding legitimate affordable housing organizations)
  • Implementation burden: Landlords, tenants, and housing organizations need clarity on how the new definition changes their rights, obligations, and program eligibility
  • Affordability impact: Housing advocates may debate whether the definitional change sufficiently supports affordable housing goals, while property owners may question regulatory expansion

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

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