The Florida Senate is now set to consider a major condominium reform bill after the state House overwhelmingly passed its version on Wednesday.

Prompted by the tragic 2021 Surfside condo collapse, the legislation aims to ease financial burdens on condo associations and homeowners while maintaining safety standards. Miami Republican Representative Vicki Lopez is leading the effort.

“This is the much-awaited condo bill that you’ve heard so much about,” Lopez said.

Lawmakers emphasized the financial challenges faced by condo owners, particularly seniors on fixed incomes.

In the wake of the Surfside disaster, Florida required condo associations to maintain reserve funds for structural integrity studies. The new House bill would allow associations to use lines of credit instead of setting aside those reserves.

The measure also clarifies that only buildings with three or more habitable stories must undergo the required inspections and studies. Additionally, it expands the rights of condo owners by allowing them to vote electronically on association matters.

Lopez acknowledged the legislation may need adjustments down the line.

“I will absolutely come back next year if we need to see if it’s working or if it isn’t working in this format,” she said.

The bill passed the House with strong bipartisan support in a 113-2 vote. The Senate is expected to vote on the companion bill Thursday. If approved and signed into law, the reforms will take effect July 1.

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