SAINT PAUL – On Tuesday Governor Mark Dayton signed House File 1538, a bill to remove barriers in Minnesota law that has hindered development of multi-family housing such as condos and townhouses. The legislation passed with overwhelmingly bipartisan support, 122-7 in the House and 61-3 in the Senate, and received support from all areas of the state.
“As more young adults look to make home ownership a reality, too many are finding it simply out of reach due to high demand and not enough affordable homes on the market,” said Rep. Dennis Smith, R-Maple Grove, chief author of the bill. “The changes in my bill help will remove barriers that are keeping many developers from building townhouses and condos, opening up the dream of home ownership to thousands of young adults and families across the state of Minnesota.”
Smith added, “An improved townhouse and condo market will especially benefit middle and low income Minnesotans looking for the financial stability of home ownership. I am pleased the governor agreed the changes put forth in my bill are good for Minnesotans and am glad we were able to make this important piece of legislation into law.”
The bill makes updates and technical changes to constructional defects claims to match the reality of modern owner occupied multi-family buildings. Included in the bill are protections against frivolous lawsuits and notice requirements for third party dispute resolution.
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