New bill would quicken Florida foreclosures

Florida’s House Economic Affairs committee approved a proposed bill, HB 213, that would speed up Florida’s foreclosure process and shorten the amount of time banks have to pursue homeowners for unpaid debts. The bill would only apply to certain cases: where homeowners abandon their homes, when there is a default (the action is not challenged) and if no legitimate defense to the foreclosure is raised. Sponsor Rep. Kathleen Passidomo said the bill would not remove foreclosure from the courts. “This bill is not a non-judicial foreclosure bill,” she said. “This bill expedites the foreclosure process while at the same time guaranteeing the rights of citizens.” [Palm Beach Post]