Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to facilitate the development of affordable housing by religious organizations, reducing local government restrictions and providing civil remedies and financial support to encourage such developments.

Main Provisions

• Housing Authorization: Cities must allow religious organizations to develop affordable housing as a permitted use in specific zoning districts.
• Development Specifications: Allows certain building sizes and densities:
  • Up to three residential units in any residential area.
  • Up to eight units in non-single-family residential areas.
  • Higher densities up to 12 units in mixed-use or commercial districts, with more units in high-density and central business districts.
• Construction Specifications: Specifies minimum building heights and restrictions on required living space, parking spaces, and floor area ratios to facilitate development.
• Administrative Process: Developments can be approved through an administrative process without public hearings, though neighborhood meetings may be required.
• Religious Organization Protections: Offers religious organizations a mechanism to challenge burdensome zoning restrictions as a "substantial burden."

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Reduction of Local Barriers: Prevents local governments from imposing additional requirements that would hinder the development capacities outlined in the act.
• Streamlined Approvals: The administrative nature of approvals and limits on public hearings aim to expedite the development process.
• Financial Support: Appropriates state funds for grants to religious organizations undertaking affordable housing projects.

Relevant Terms

• Affordable housing
• Residential zoning
• Permitted use
• Density
• Mixed-use development
• Administrative approval
• Religious organization
• Civil remedies
• Housing appropriations