Rep. Lim proposes voluntary multifamily database to spotlight landlord practices

Representative Lim told the State Planning & Community Affairs committee that HB 11210 (LC 540331) would "not require but authorize DCA to create a completely voluntary participation database for any multif family complex in Georgia that wishes to participate." The bill, she said, would let multifamily housing providers voluntarily submit data — including unit availability, ownership and recent inspection information — so the public could more permanently see provider practices.

Lim framed the proposal as a transparency tool rather than a mechanism to advertise vacancies or to create a mandatory registry. "The goal to be clear is not to advertise open units ... the goal to be clear is to provide a more permanent public means by which regardless of whether open units or not multifamily housing providers can ... enduringly signal to the public regarding their practices if they should choose to do so," Lim said. She told the committee she hoped the database would create "a race to the top" by spotlighting best practices among owners and managers.

During questions, a committee member asked where the data would be housed. Lim said it would be housed by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), which already operates GeorgiaHousingSearch.org and is the state agency through which HUD funds flow in non-entitlement jurisdictions. A different committee member suggested contacting Georgia MLS so single-family rental listings might also be covered; Lim said she had not contacted MLS and would follow up.

The committee moved the bill forward on a motion to "do pass," which was seconded and approved by voice vote. The meeting record does not show a roll-call tally or the identity of the seconder. The committee also received a packet on rideshare for future study and adjourned.