Around 2,000 bills proposed across the United States in 2026 had the potential to impact community associations. Overall, community association governance, rules, and oversight are expected to be under increased legislative scrutiny in the future. That makes understanding legal trends a top priority for association leadership. 

Associa is the only management company with a full-time government affairs staff. Walking the halls of Capitol Hill and state capitols across the country, our team has the expertise to understand what the future of community association law may look like. In this ebook, John Krueger, vice president of
government affairs for Associa, outlines the legislative trends gaining traction, the states where these bills have emerged, and what to expect in the year ahead. 

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not serve as legal advice.

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Why Board Members Should Get Involved in HOA Legislation

With so much on the line, HOA board members must advocate for their communities. This means contacting legislators to share your input and ensuring decision-makers know how proposals will impact homeowners.

By taking action, board members can potentially:

• Spread awareness on vital issues that affect HOAs
• Influence legislators before laws pass or change
• Prevent harmful decisions
• Protect homeowners from higher fees or assessments
• Maintain the integrity and harmony of the community
• Support laws that are favorable for HOAs
• Create lasting partnerships with legislators

Government leaders are public servants who want to hear from their constituents. They welcome opinions that give them a broader understanding of important issues. When board members speak up for homeowners, they use their voices to effect positive change.

How Board Members Can Take Legislative Action

As an HOA board member, you have a duty to uphold your association’s governing documents and promote the community’s best interests. This can be done in part by engaging in government affairs when your HOA rules and lifestyle are at stake. Here’s how you can make a difference:

1. Visit your legislators.
2. Reach out to legislators through different methods of communication.
3. Invite legislators to HOA meetings.
4. Write a local editorial about pending issues.
5. Get involved with Community Associations Institute.
6. Support a political action committee.

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Can I Display 2026 Political Signs In My HOA?

With the 2026 election season upon us, one especially prevalent topic for homeowners’ associations (HOAs) across North America is the display of political signs in members’ front yards and homes. As a resident of a managed community, you may have questioned the allowances regarding political signs in your neighborhood—if they’re permitted, restricted, or given any attention at all. 

Put simply, it depends. HOAs are typically non-profit corporations that govern through deed restrictions and rules and regulations. Found within your community’s governing documents, these rules and regulations are in place for good reason; they’re meant to preserve the aesthetics of an area, protect home values, maintain the association’s property, and more. When you buy a property within an HOA, you sign legal paperwork agreeing to the terms set within the governing documents. So, ultimately, if there are political sign restrictions or allowances in the governing documents, you must adhere to them.