MHI Defends Land-Lease Communities in Legislatures Across the Country

As state legislators across the country grapple with increasing housing costs for their constituents, there has been an onslaught of proposals that would severely impact the owners and operators of land-lease communities. MHI has leaned in more than ever at the state level to protect the ability of communities to continue to operate effectively and provide quality, attainable housing for their residents.

MHI has responded swiftly to an influx of harmful legislation—ranging from rent control to excessive regulatory burdens—by supporting state associations with resources and talking points, engaging directly with state lawmakers and facilitating grassroots advocacy. MHI plans to continue increasing its engagement and support at the state level into the future.

• New Mexico: MHI had a pivotal role in helping defeat multiple bills during the 2025 legislative session, including with respect to rent control and right-of-first-refusal. Through written and verbal testimony, coordination with local owners and operators, and engagement with policymakers, MHI successfully helped ensure none of the legislation moved forward. MHI is now working with the policymakers to identify solutions that will support the land-lease community model and the residents that reside within them.
• Maine: Working with the state association, MHI provided information, resources and testimony to combat several bills that would impose excessive per-lot fees during home sales, extend right-of-first-refusal periods and implement rent caps—policies that could disrupt community operations and limit housing availability.
• Pennsylvania & Connecticut: MHI is actively supporting state association efforts to push back against aggressive rent control legislation through testimony and grassroots mobilization.
• New York: MHI’s grassroots advocacy tools are being used to help stakeholders voice opposition to rent control bills that threaten housing affordability and community stability.
• New Jersey: MHI continues to fight against rent control legislation that has now been passed by the legislature and is pending before the governor, in concert with the state association.

MHI is committed to educating policymakers at all levels of government about the value and benefits of land-lease communities and will continue to increase our state advocacy support.