The New Mexico House Judiciary Committee convened on March 8, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding manufactured housing and mobile home parks, culminating in a proposal aimed at stabilizing rent and improving living conditions for residents.

A key focus of the meeting was House Bill 44, which seeks to establish a working group to tackle the challenges faced by mobile home park residents, particularly concerning frequent rent increases and inadequate utility services. The bill proposes a two-year period during which rent increases would be limited, allowing the working group to assess and recommend fair regulations for both tenants and landlords.

Committee members acknowledged the growing crisis in mobile home parks, where many residents, particularly retirees, face significant hardships due to rising costs and deteriorating infrastructure. Representative Bailey expressed a commitment to lead the working group, emphasizing the need for balanced regulations that protect tenants while also considering the financial viability of park owners.

Opposition to the bill emerged from various stakeholders, including community operators and real estate representatives, who raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of rent controls on property maintenance and investment. They argued that artificial limitations could hinder landlords' ability to respond to rising operational costs, ultimately affecting the quality of living conditions for residents.

Despite the opposition, many residents voiced strong support for the bill, sharing personal stories of financial strain due to escalating rents and inadequate services. They highlighted the importance of the proposed working group as a platform for dialogue and collaboration to find sustainable solutions.

The committee plans to gather input from both sides as it moves forward, with initial reports from the working group expected by December 2025. This initiative represents a significant step towards addressing the complex issues surrounding manufactured housing in New Mexico, aiming to ensure that vulnerable populations are protected while fostering a fair environment for landlords.