The bill CS/CS/HB 657 introduces comprehensive reforms to the governance and operation of homeowners' and condominium 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, requiring the clerk of the circuit court to record this status. The bill also mandates that exclusive easements revert to the servient estate upon dissolution under specific conditions and prohibits these easements from becoming public rights-of-way unless recorded separately. Additionally, it retroactively applies these provisions to associations dissolved before, on, or after July 1, 2026. Other key changes include the removal of presuit mediation requirements, the introduction of a community association court program for dispute resolution, and the establishment of fiduciary responsibilities for directors and officers regarding conflicts of interest.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the process for amending governing documents, requiring existing associations to hold a vote by January 1, 2027, to include a statement of adherence to the Florida Homeowners' Association Act, with a two-thirds majority needed for approval. It emphasizes arbitration for election and recall disputes while eliminating presuit mediation for these issues. The legislation also outlines the conditions for terminating a homeowners' association, requiring a two-thirds majority approval for a termination plan and a petition signed by at least 50% of voting members. A termination trustee will manage asset distribution and liability resolution upon dissolution, and a community association court program will be established to handle disputes, ensuring fair treatment and accountability within community associations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

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
H 657 c2: 720.302, 720.306, 720.311, 34.01, 336.125, 558.002, 617.0601, 617.0701, 617.0721, 617.0725, 617.0808, 617.1606, 718.116, 720.3085