Assemblymember Connolly introduces AB 806 to protect mobile home residents from extreme heat

The Assembly Judiciary Committee of the California State Assembly convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss several legislative matters, prominently featuring Assembly Bill 806, introduced by Assemblymember Connolly. The bill aims to enhance the rights of mobile home park residents by allowing them to install cooling systems in their homes and mandating park owners to maintain reasonable temperature conditions in common areas during extreme heat events.

Assemblymember Connolly opened the discussion by emphasizing the urgent need for this legislation, citing the increasing frequency of extreme heat events in California, which has seen record-breaking temperatures. He highlighted that mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to heat due to restrictions in park leases that often prevent residents from installing necessary cooling systems. The bill seeks to address these issues, especially for the state's low-income and elderly populations who are disproportionately affected by heat-related health risks.

Patrick McDonnell, a supervising attorney from Legal Aid of Sonoma County, supported the bill, noting that over 1.6 million Californians live in mobile home parks, many of whom face dangerous temperatures without adequate cooling options. He pointed out that current laws do not guarantee residents the right to install cooling systems, which can lead to severe health consequences during heat waves.

Roger Johnson, representing mobile home owners, shared personal experiences illustrating the dire need for cooling solutions. He recounted instances where residents suffered in extreme heat due to management's refusal to allow cooling installations, stressing that the bill is a necessary measure for public health and safety.

The committee heard additional support from various organizations, including the Building Decarbonization Coalition and the Western Center on Law and Poverty, all advocating for the bill's passage. However, opposition was voiced by Chris Wysocki from the WMA, who urged a no vote, although he acknowledged the amendments made to the bill to exempt parks with insufficient electrical systems.

The committee ultimately moved to vote on AB 806, reflecting a growing recognition of the need to protect vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change. The discussions underscored the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding the health and safety of mobile home park residents in California.