Florida Lawmaker Considers Statewide HOA Abolishment Amid Resident Frustration

Florida State Representative Juan Carlos Porras is actively considering legislation to abolish homeowners associations (HOAs) statewide, arguing that they function as unaccountable authoritarian boards that negatively affect residents' day-to-day lives. Porras has criticized current HOA laws for lacking enforcement and transparency, likening the system to pseudo-governments with insufficient accountability mechanisms. While HOAs are credited with maintaining community standards and protecting property values, many Floridians express frustration over rising fees, overbearing board members, and legal disputes, prompting calls for reform or abolition. Advocates for HOAs, including some community leaders and the Community Associations Institute, warn that eliminating HOAs could transfer responsibilities such as street and sidewalk maintenance, trash removal, and recreation facilities to local governments, potentially increasing property taxes. Porras suggests alternatives like government intervention or private clubs could replace HOAs’ services more affordably. The debate reflects broader tensions in Florida about governance, property rights, and community management, with Porras pushing for significant legislative changes in the upcoming session.