The bill S.34, introduced by Senators White, Clarkson, and Major, aims to lower the allowable rate of increase for mobile home lot rents in Vermont. It amends 10 V.S.A. § 6252 to stipulate that a mobile home park owner cannot propose a lot rent increase that exceeds one percentage point above the U.S. Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers, specifically the Housing Component. Additionally, if a majority of affected leaseholders dispute the proposed increase within 15 business days, they can file a petition with the Commissioner, who will then facilitate mediation by providing a list of qualified mediators.

The bill also outlines the mediation process, requiring the mobile home park owner to provide relevant documents to the mediator and leaseholders before the mediation sessions. The mediator is tasked with attempting to resolve the dispute and must issue a report on the outcome, which cannot be used as evidence in any subsequent actions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-6252