The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1444 aims to facilitate the conversion of commercial real property into residential use by allowing such conversions "as of right." This means that zoning regulations must permit the conversion or partial conversion of any commercial building—defined as structures primarily used for nonresidential purposes—into residential developments without requiring additional approvals or corrections of nonconforming uses. The bill specifies that municipalities cannot impose unreasonable delays on inspections related to these conversions and mandates that decisions on permit applications be made within 65 days, with the possibility of a 65-day extension if consented to by the applicant.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision that protects converted commercial buildings from revaluation for three years following the issuance of a certificate of occupancy. This is intended to provide financial stability for property owners during the transition from commercial to residential use. The act will take effect on October 1, 2025, and introduces new legal language to the existing statutes, while deleting any conflicting provisions.