The bill seeks to strengthen the security and stability of tenants in manufactured and mobile home communities in Washington State, addressing the growing threat to affordable housing due to community closures and conversions. It emphasizes the importance of tenant involvement in the preservation of these communities by allowing eligible organizations, such as community land trusts and nonprofit cooperatives, to participate in voluntary sales. Key provisions include a minimum two-year notification period before any community closure or conversion, unless just compensation is provided to homeowners. The bill also introduces definitions for terms like "community land trust" and modifies rental agreement requirements to include specific provisions about potential park closures and tenant rights.

Additionally, the legislation establishes new regulations for the sale of manufactured/mobile home communities, mandating that landlords notify tenants and relevant organizations of any sale intentions and allowing tenants the opportunity to form a qualified organization to compete for the purchase. Owners must provide written notice via certified mail or personal delivery, detailing the sale process and tenants' rights. The bill emphasizes good faith negotiations between owners and tenants during the sale process, ensuring tenants have access to the same information as commercial buyers and prohibiting owners from denying them the opportunity to purchase the community. Overall, the bill aims to enhance tenant protections and clarify landlord responsibilities in mobile home park transactions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 59.20.060, 59.20.073, 59.20.080, 59.20.300, 59.20.305, 59.21.030
Substitute Bill: 59.20.060, 59.20.073, 59.20.080, 59.20.300, 59.20.305, 59.21.030
Second Substitute: 59.20.060, 59.20.073, 59.20.080, 59.20.300, 59.20.305
Engrossed Second Substitute: 59.20.060, 59.20.073, 59.20.080, 59.20.300, 59.20.305, 59.21.040
Bill as Passed Legislature: 59.20.060, 59.20.073, 59.20.080, 59.20.300, 59.20.305, 59.21.040
Session Law: 59.20.060, 59.20.073, 59.20.080, 59.20.300, 59.20.305, 59.21.040