Substitute Senate Bill No. 1252 seeks to create "priority housing development zones" in municipalities across Connecticut, effective July 1, 2025. The bill defines key terms and establishes criteria for these zones, which must align with the state plan of conservation and development. It allows zoning commissions to adopt regulations that facilitate multifamily housing development, sets minimum density requirements, and permits modifications to existing zoning standards. Municipalities can request letters of eligibility from the Commissioner of Housing to establish these zones, and the bill clarifies the conditions under which certificates for affordable housing project completion may be issued, including new language regarding the commissioner's authority in this process.

The bill also modifies the criteria for municipalities to qualify for a temporary suspension of the affordable housing land use appeals procedure, lowering the required housing unit equivalent (HUE) points from 75 to 65 for general moratorium eligibility. It mandates that priority zones cover at least 10% of a municipality's developable land and allows for the establishment of historic districts within these zones. Additionally, the bill introduces new HUE values for mobile manufactured home parks and middle housing developments, promoting affordable housing initiatives. The Housing Committee has favorably reported the bill, reflecting a commitment to enhancing housing frameworks and supporting municipalities that adopt favorable zoning regulations.