Sen. Donzella James Celebrates Final Passage of Legislation to Protect Georgia Property Owners

ATLANTA (April 1, 2026) - This week, the Senate agreed to the House substitute to Senate Bill 406, co-sponsored by Sen. Donzella James (D-Atlanta). Also known as the "Georgia Property Owners' Bill of Rights Act," this bill establishes new protections for property owners while increasing accountability for property owners' associations across the state.

SB 406 requires homeowners' and property owners' associations to register annually with the Secretary of State and submit key governing and financial information. Associations that fail to register will be prohibited from collecting fines, issuing liens or initiating foreclosure proceedings. The legislation also implements new safeguards for homeowners, including limits on certain fees and fines, stronger notice requirements, and a clear process for resolving disputes between homeowners and associations.

"I am very excited about the passage of SB 406," said Sen. Donzella James. "For years, I have been a strong advocate for homeowners, and I have heard countless cases of people being taken advantage of by predatory associations. This legislation represents a meaningful step forward in protecting homeowners by promoting transparency and fairness. It helps ensure that no Georgian is subjected to unjust fees, fines, or the threat of foreclosure without proper oversight and due process."

Sen. James added, "I especially want to thank Sen. Matt Brass for his support and partnership in advancing this bipartisan legislation. I am also deeply grateful to the many Georgia residents who have attended community meetings and shared their personal experiences with me over the years. Your voices have been instrumental in shaping this bill and bringing it to fruition."

Having passed both chambers of the General Assembly, SB 406 will now move to the Governor's desk for final approval. For more information on this legislation, click here.

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Sen. Donzella James serves as Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Urban Affairs. She represents the 28^th Senate District, which includes portions of Cobb, Douglas and Fulton counties. She may be reached by phone at (404) 463-1379 or by email at [email protected].

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