Connecticut's House Bill 5428 is making waves as it aims to empower residents of mobile manufactured home parks by giving them the right to purchase their communities. Introduced on March 6, 2025, this legislation allows associations representing at least 25% of park residents to notify owners of their interest in buying the park, setting a timeline of 365 days for negotiations or purchase.

The bill's key provisions include a structured process for residents to acquire their parks, including assistance from the Department of Housing in securing financing. If negotiations stall, the bill outlines a method for determining a fair purchase price through appraisers, ensuring that residents have a clear path to ownership even in the face of potential disputes with park owners.

Debate surrounding House Bill 5428 has been intense, with proponents arguing that it protects vulnerable residents from displacement and rising rents, while opponents raise concerns about the financial implications for park owners and the potential for disputes over appraisals. Critics fear that the bill could discourage investment in mobile home parks, leading to a decline in maintenance and services.

The implications of this bill are significant. If passed, it could reshape the landscape of mobile home living in Connecticut, providing a model for resident empowerment and community stability. Experts suggest that successful implementation could lead to increased housing security for many families, while also sparking similar legislative efforts in other states.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain, but its potential to transform mobile home park ownership is clear. Residents and advocates are watching closely, hopeful that this legislation will pave the way for greater autonomy and security in their living situations.