The bill CS/HB 657 introduces comprehensive reforms to the governance and dissolution processes of homeowners' associations in Florida. It establishes a new section, 712.13, which declares that the governing documents of a dissolved homeowners' association are terminated and unenforceable, with the clerk of the circuit court required to mark these documents as inactive in county records. Additionally, exclusive easements held by the association will revert to the servient estate upon dissolution, contingent on the owner having paid their ad valorem taxes. The bill also clarifies that these easements cannot become public rights-of-way unless they are separately recorded for public use. This section applies retroactively to associations dissolved before, on, or after July 1, 2026.

Moreover, the bill amends existing statutes to enhance transparency and accountability within homeowners' associations. It removes presuit mediation requirements, replacing them with nonbinding arbitration or mediation, and establishes a community association court program to handle disputes. New requirements mandate that associations formed after July 1, 2026, include a statement in their governing documents indicating compliance with the Florida Homeowners' Association Act, while existing associations must hold a meeting by January 1, 2027, to vote on amending their documents accordingly. The bill also addresses conflicts of interest for directors and officers, requiring disclosure of financial interests and abstention from voting on related matters. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline governance processes while protecting the rights of homeowners and ensuring fair treatment during the dissolution of associations.

Statutes affected:
H 657 Filed: 720.302, 720.303, 720.306, 720.311, 34.01
H 657 c1: 720.302, 720.306, 720.311, 34.01