The bill CS/CS/CS/HB 943 amends Florida Statutes to streamline the approval process for affordable housing developments, particularly on parcels owned by religious institutions. It allows county commissioners and municipal governing bodies to approve multifamily and mixed-use residential developments without requiring zoning changes or special exceptions, provided that at least 10% of the units are affordable. The legislation prohibits municipalities from imposing restrictions on density, floor area ratios, and building heights below specified thresholds, ensuring that developments can proceed without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, it introduces provisions for reducing parking requirements and prioritizing civil actions related to these developments in courts, with reasonable attorney fees awarded to the prevailing party.

Key insertions in the bill include definitions of "allowable density" and "workforce housing," as well as requirements for the administrative approval process and conditions for reducing parking requirements. The bill mandates that municipalities maintain a policy for administrative approvals on their websites and report annually on litigation related to housing violations and development actions. It also emphasizes the prohibition of discrimination in land use decisions based on housing affordability and source of financing. Overall, the bill aims to enhance affordable housing initiatives and promote transparency and accountability in local land use decisions, with certain provisions set to expire on October 1, 2033.

Statutes affected:
H 943 Filed: 163.31801, 166.041, 163.31771, 333.03, 760.26, 479.01, 1001.43
H 943 c1: 163.31801, 166.041, 163.31771, 333.03, 420.50871, 760.22, 760.26, 760.35, 479.01, 1001.43
H 943 c2: 163.31801, 166.041, 163.31771, 333.03, 420.50871, 760.22, 760.26, 760.35, 1001.43
H 943 c3: 380.0552, 420.50871, 760.22, 760.26, 760.35