The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6944 requires municipalities in Connecticut to develop and submit an affordable housing plan by June 1, 2027, and every five years thereafter. It introduces new definitions such as "affordable housing plan," "affordable housing unit," and "discretionary funding" to clarify the requirements for these plans. Municipalities within the highest eighty percent of net equalized per capita grand list income must create a priority affordable housing plan that details how they will leverage municipal powers to foster affordable housing development, including specific percentages of units for low-income and very low-income households. The bill also mandates that municipalities apply for approval of their plans and zoning amendments, with the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management responsible for reviewing these applications.

Additionally, the bill enhances public engagement by requiring municipalities to hold informational meetings and post draft plans online prior to public hearings. It establishes a legal framework for interested parties to challenge the conformity of approved plans in Superior Court, placing the burden of proof on the Secretary. The bill also outlines eligibility for municipalities to receive prioritized discretionary funding based on compliance with the new regulations and approved zoning changes. Existing provisions related to affordable housing plans are repealed and replaced with these new requirements, thereby strengthening the focus on increasing affordable housing availability and ensuring accountability in the planning process.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 8-30j