Senator Eric introduced Senate Bill 1267, which would give local governments an additional tool to levy increased civil penalties when multiple zoning violations at multifamily residential properties go unaddressed by property owners.

Senator Eric told the committee that some localities he represents have seen families and multifamily properties remain in violation conditions because property owners did not correct issues after local government attempts to compel compliance. He summarized current penalty caps and the proposed increases: “right now, localities are capped at $200 for the first violation and $500 for the subsequent violation,” and the bill would allow raises to $1,000 for the second violation, up to $1,500 for a third, and a maximum of $6,000 in a 12‑month period.

Senator Eric said the change would be optional for local governments — it would not mandate higher fines statewide but would provide an additional enforcement tool for jurisdictions that choose to use it. Maddie Bussey, representing the City of Hampton, said the city supports the bill. No one testified in opposition.

The subcommittee moved to report the bill, and the motion passed on a roll call of 7‑0.