MI HB4298

Department must revise and promulgate rules governing licensure of mobile home park owners by January 1, 2023, after consulting with the commission, consumer advocates, legal aid groups, industry representatives, and local governments.

Changes licensing requirement from "operate" to "own" a mobile home park or seasonal mobile home park; license term reduced from 3 years to 2 years beginning January 1, 2024, with applicants having 60 days to receive a decision after submitting a complete application.

New applicants without prior licensure must obtain a 2-year provisional license before taking ownership, with department inspection within 1 year to identify any violations of the act.

Department may impose administrative fines up to $100,000 for unlicensed park ownership after notice and hearing; unlicensed owners prohibited from collecting rent or pursuing possession actions against residents, with tenants able to sue for actual damages and punitive damages.

License applicants must demonstrate financial ability, affirm compliance with laws, show no prior license denials or revocations within 7 years, have no fraud convictions within 7 years, have no record of unjustifiable rent increases, and prove parks were in substantial compliance at most recent inspection; fee increases phased in from $225-$350-$450 for regular parks and $120-$200-$250 for seasonal parks.