Assemblymember Ward Introduces Legislation to Guarantee Air Conditioning Access for HOA Homeowners

• Anthony Reyes
• (916) 319-2078
• [email protected]

SACRAMENTO, CA - Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) introduced AB 1684, to increase access to home cooling systems amid rising temperatures. This bill, suggested by an AD 78 constituent, prohibits a California homeowners association from restricting in its governing documents the installation, use, or replacement of a cooling system.

With annual temperatures soaring to the hottest in recorded history, heat waves are the deadliest kind of extreme weather in the United States, surpassing hurricanes, floods, and other disasters. Studies have shown that working home air conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related mortality and illness during a heat wave. Air conditioning (AC) installation rates have increased by more than 30% in the last five years, but 24% of California households still lack access to potentially lifesaving cooling systems.

"AB 1684 ensures that where you reside, specifically a residence that is a part of a homeowners association, does not create unintended barriers to AC access." said Assemblymember Ward. "By adding AC's to the list of protected uses for an HOA member, this bill ensures that a homeowner may install the cooling system of their choice without time consuming paperwork or costly fees."

AB 1684 introduces key provisions to clarify a homeowner's right to install and operate the cooling system of their choice. By declaring invalid any cooling system restrictions or fees in an HOA's governing documents, it ensures no HOA can deny a homeowner from installing a cooling system for aesthetic reasons. The bill particularly aims to address populations that are particularly vulnerable to heat illness, including children, seniors, and people with respiratory conditions.

"California homeowners deserve to make their own choices regarding heat management," said Assemblymember Ward. "Choosing a cooling system that meets your family's healthcare needs and remains financially feasible not only improves quality of life, but also helps protect vulnerable individuals from preventable heat-related illness."