Governor signs housing legislation

“Housing is a human right. That’s why we’re cutting red tape, increasing protections for families in manufactured home communities, and expanding the supply of affordable choices,” said Meyer. “These new laws build on actions we already took to accelerate housing permitting, launch statewide homelessness prevention efforts, and put our Housing Task Force recommendations into action. Together, we’re ensuring that every Delawarean—no matter their income or zip code—has a place to call home.”

Senate Bill 150, sponsored by Sens. Russ Huxtable and Rep. Kendra Johnson, establishes the Affordable Rental Housing Program to provide loans that expand affordable housing for low- and moderate-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Senate Bill 176, sponsored by Sen. Russ Huxtable and Rep. Claire Snyder-Hall, along with Senate Minority Whip Brian Pettyjohn and Rep. Jeff Hilovsky, authorizes Sussex County to apply impact fees on new building permits to help fund the local share of school construction costs.

Senate Bill 40, sponsored by Sen. Jack Walsh and Reps. Bill Carson, cracks down on repeated violations by manufactured home community landlords by making them subject to the Consumer Fraud Act and allows the Attorney General to step in with stronger enforcement, including possible receivership.

Senate Substitute 2 for Senate Bill 56, sponsored by Sen. Kyra Hoffner and Rep. Bill Carson, clarifies and streamlines the process for selling, transferring, or inheriting manufactured homes. It closes loopholes that previously let community owners block sales or inheritance rights.

House Bill 193, sponsored by Rep. Hilovksy and Sens. Kyra Hoffner and Eric Buckson, removes the $15 million cap on the Manufactured Home Relocation Trust Fund and increases the tenant contribution to the Manufactured Home Owner Attorney Fund from 50 cents to $1.50 per month.