The "Real Affordable Housing Relief Act" seeks to amend Florida housing statutes by removing existing prohibitions on local governments' ability to implement rent control measures, thereby granting municipalities and counties greater authority to address housing affordability. The bill introduces a new section, 166.0452, which establishes community land bank programs aimed at acquiring and managing unimproved real property for affordable housing. Local governments will be required to develop community land bank plans, conduct public hearings, and notify relevant stakeholders before adoption. The bill also outlines operational requirements for these land banks, including the right of first refusal for qualified organizations, reinvestment of sale proceeds, and maintenance of financial records.

In addition to enhancing local control over housing policies, the bill creates various programs and provisions to promote affordable housing and resilience. It establishes a uniform home resiliency grading scale, introduces the Innovative Mitigation Solutions Pilot Program, and creates the Retail-to-Residence Tax Credit Program to incentivize the conversion of shopping centers into affordable housing. The bill also amends existing housing fund statutes to ensure proper reporting and introduces the Affordable Housing Construction Loan Program. Furthermore, it addresses unlawful competition in the rental market by prohibiting landlords from engaging in pricing coordination and enhances consumer protection through the establishment of a consumer advocate position and public education initiatives. Overall, the bill aims to improve housing affordability and resilience while regulating the real estate market more effectively.

Statutes affected:
S 1726 Filed: 125.0103, 166.043, 420.0005, 420.9079, 542.21, 542.25, 542.32