The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5396 aims to facilitate the development of affordable housing on land owned by religious organizations. It defines "religious organization affordable housing development" as a project where at least 30% of the dwelling units are subject to a deed restriction ensuring they remain affordable for individuals and families earning 60% of the median income for at least 40 years. The bill allows such developments to undergo a summary review process, exempting them from certain zoning regulations related to density and height, with specific exceptions for properties owned by religious organizations for less than three years, those in flood hazard areas, near oil or gas facilities, lacking water or sewer access, or used as cemeteries.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that developments requiring the demolition of properties listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places are not eligible for the summary review process unless approved by the State Historic Preservation Officer. The summary review process mandates that decisions on applications be made within 90 days, with the possibility of extending this period by mutual consent. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and introduces new legal language while deleting outdated provisions related to the review process.