Substitute House Bill No. 6996 modifies the process for handling protest petitions related to changes in municipal zoning regulations. Under current law, a proposed change requires a two-thirds majority vote from the zoning commission if a valid protest petition is filed, which can be signed by owners of at least 20% of the area of the lots affected or those within 500 feet. The bill changes this requirement by allowing a simple majority vote to suffice even when a protest petition is filed, thereby making it easier for the commission to approve zoning changes.

Additionally, the bill raises the threshold for a valid protest petition, requiring signatures from owners of at least 50% of the total number of lots included in the proposed change or those within 500 feet, rather than the area of the lots. This shift aims to streamline the zoning process while still allowing for community input through protest petitions. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.