This bill aims to enhance affordable housing initiatives in Florida by amending existing statutes related to residential development. It requires counties and municipalities to permit multifamily and mixed-use residential developments on properties owned by local governments or school districts, provided that at least 40% of the units are designated as affordable rental units for a minimum of 30 years. The bill prohibits local governments from imposing height restrictions on these developments and allows applicants to submit revised applications to align with the new provisions. Additionally, it revises definitions related to commercial and industrial use to ensure certain agricultural activities are not classified as such.

Moreover, the bill addresses housing discrimination by waiving state sovereign immunity for specific claims and expanding the definitions of "person" and "discriminatory practices" in land use decisions to include affordable housing. It mandates that proposed developments must be located within the geographic boundaries of the respective county, municipality, or school district, ensuring their involvement in the application process. The bill also clarifies the definition of "mixed use" and allows applicants to notify local governments of their intent to proceed under previous provisions if their applications were submitted before July 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation seeks to streamline the approval process for affordable housing projects while preventing local governments from imposing unnecessary restrictions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1548 Filed: 333.03, 760.22, 760.26, 760.35