The 2017 Washington State legislative session commenced on January 7, 2017 and is in full swing. It's expected to be another active session involving condominium and homeowner associations.  Hearings are already taking place and bills are being introduced, including:

• Construction Defect Claims (Hearings ongoing)
• Changes to Condo Notice and Hearing Requirements (SB 5134)
• Amendments to Condo Bylaws (SB 5250)

On Tuesday, my law partner Dean Martin testified before the House Community Development, Housing and Tribal Affairs Committee related to lawsuit tolling agreements affecting construction defect claims.  The Washington State chapter of Community Association Institute's Legislative Action Committee, which includes another of my law partners, Jeremy Stilwell, is actively reviewing proposed legislation regarding both condominium and homeowner associations. All of us at Barker Martin place a high priority on participating in the legislative process and advocating for homeowners' rights.

You, too, can become involved by contacting your elected officials and providing them with your input.  To locate who your representatives are, click here.

Oregon's legislative session convenes on February 1, 2017. Although it is not expected to involve as many bills affecting community associations as Washington's session, the team at Barker Martin will continue to keep you advised on issues that may affect your community. Stay tuned for further alerts and updates as the sessions progress.

In the interim, do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding proposed legislation or community association legal issues.