The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6960, aims to establish a Public Infrastructure Grant Program to assist certain municipalities in funding the construction, improvement, and expansion of public infrastructure, such as water lines, sewer lines, and roads. This program specifically targets projects associated with the construction of single-family dwellings and middle housing that are subject to affordable housing deed restrictions. The Office of Policy and Management will oversee the program, developing eligibility criteria, application processes, and guidelines for the expenditure of grants-in-aid.
Additionally, municipalities that receive grants-in-aid will be required to refund any unspent amounts upon project completion or if funds are not used according to the established guidelines. The Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management is also mandated to submit an annual report to the relevant legislative committee, detailing the municipalities that applied for grants, the nature of their projects, and the status of grant awards. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and introduces new legal language while amending existing statutes to facilitate this program.