Substitute House Bill No. 6963, also known as Public Act No. 25-53, introduces significant amendments to existing laws regarding municipal approvals and the New Home Construction Guaranty Fund. The bill extends the validity of site plan and subdivision approvals to a minimum of fourteen years and a maximum of nineteen years, with provisions for extensions. It defines "business" to encompass various organizational forms and establishes criteria for violations related to site plan or subdivision requirements, empowering zoning enforcement officers to initiate enforcement actions. Additionally, municipalities are granted the authority to impose penalties for zoning violations, capped at $150 per day, with fines payable to the municipality's treasurer. The bill also updates the process for addressing inland wetlands violations, ensuring individuals have the opportunity for a hearing after receiving a cease-and-desist order.

Furthermore, the bill amends the New Home Construction Guaranty Fund regulations, mandating an annual fee of $240 for individuals receiving a certificate under specified sections, and revising the fund's balance threshold from $700,000 to $650,000. It reallocates excess funds, with the first $400,000 going to the consumer protection enforcement account. The maximum claim amount from the fund is increased from $30,000 to $50,000, and the bill clarifies the process for consumers seeking compensation after obtaining a binding arbitration decision or court judgment against contractors. It also holds contractors and proprietors liable for debts resulting from payments made to consumers from the fund, ensuring accountability and enhancing consumer protection in the home construction sector.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 8-12, 20-417a, 20-417i
PD Joint Favorable Substitute: 20-417a, 20-417i
File No. 620: 20-417a, 20-417i
File No. 810: 20-417a, 20-417i
Public Act No. 25-53: 20-417a, 20-417i