Soto fights for renters’ rights in foreclosure

TALLAHASSEE – Representative Darren Soto (D-Orlando) offered two amendments today to House Bill 125 sponsored by Representative Hazelle Rogers (D-Lauderdale Lakes). House Bill 125 would increase protections for tenants who live in a property involved in a foreclosure proceeding. Representative Soto’s amendments, which were defeated in committee, would have granted rights to tenants who live in a property involved in a foreclosure action.

The amendments sought to give tenants: the ability to terminate a lease once a foreclosure action has been filed against the property in which they reside; the option to remain in a property according to the lease for the duration of the foreclosure action; and the right to remain in the property until 90 days after the certificate of title is issued or for the remainder of a valid written lease, whichever is longer.

Representative Soto also offered an amendment to require tenants be served with a plain-language notice explaining their rights. These amendments are to be interpreted consistent with federal case law.

“I am disheartened by today’s votes against common-sense legislation that would provide bare-minimum notice to any tenant whose property is in foreclosure,” said Representative Darren Soto. “Under current law, tenants in foreclosure have few rights and remedies; and the circumstances they face can be confusing, frustrating and tragic. Representative Rogers and I are committed to continuing the fight for this legislation to help renters.”

Members of the Civil Justice and Courts Policy Committee voted against House Bill 125 and both of Representative Soto’s amendments. The bill failed on a 9-2 vote.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 1, 2010

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