SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6199
As of January 23, 2024
Title: An act relating to requiring housing authorities to use notification methods designed to provide evidence of delivery.
Brief Description: Requiring housing authorities to use notification methods designed to provide evidence of delivery.
Sponsors: Senators Dozier and Fortunato.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Housing: 1/24/24.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requires housing authorities to use return receipt service, or similar method of notification designed to provide evidence of delivery, when contacting an individual by mail regarding their eligibility for financial assistance.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HOUSING
Staff: Melissa Van Gorkom (786-7491)
Background:

Public Housing Authorities.  Public housing authorities (PHA) are public bodies established to provide safe and affordable rental housing for low-income individuals and families. PHAs primarily serve as a conduit for federally funded housing programs, such as tenant-based vouchers and publicly owned housing. PHAs also own and operate other rental housing such as emergency and transitional housing, senior housing, and properties funded through low-income housing tax credits.

 

Return Receipt Service.  The United States Postal Service return receipt service provides the sender with proof of delivery by mail or e-mail.  The charge for receiving a return receipt by mail is $3.55. The charge for receiving a return receipt by e-mail is $2.20.
Summary of Bill:

A PHA attempting to contact an individual by mail regarding eligibility for financial assistance must include a return receipt service or similar method of notification that is designed to provide evidence of delivery.  The PHA may allow an individual to opt out of the notification methods.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.