This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding municipal zoning for multifamily residential development and adaptive reuse of commercial properties. Under the new provisions, municipalities with populations of 150,000 or more will be required to establish objective standards for multifamily residential development or adaptive reuse of existing commercial, office, or mixed-use parcels within 90 days of the bill's effective date. The bill allows for at least 10% of these parcels to be eligible for such development, as opposed to the previous limitation of 10% of existing buildings. Additionally, municipalities will be prohibited from designating individual parcels for development or excluding parcels from eligibility based on sound levels below 65 decibels.

The bill also modifies definitions related to housing and zoning. It removes the criteria that defined low-income and moderate-income housing based on the percentage of income spent on rent or mortgage, instead focusing on household income relative to area median income. Furthermore, it clarifies that "nonconforming" structures are those that have received occupancy permits under the regulations in place at the time of construction. The changes aim to streamline the process for municipalities to adapt to housing needs while ensuring that certain standards are maintained. The act is designated as an emergency measure, taking effect immediately upon the Governor's signature and retroactive to January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-462.10
House Engrossed Version: 9-462.10
Chaptered Version: 9-462.10