This bill mandates the Department of Business and Economic Affairs to produce a report that outlines methods to enhance lending practices for housing developments aimed at assisting persons with disabilities. The report will focus on identifying legislative mechanisms to incentivize inclusive lending practices by financial institutions, which may include tax credits for inclusive housing finance products, public-private loan guarantees, and strategies aligned with the Community Reinvestment Act. The department is required to consult with at least five financial institutions, including a community bank and credit union, as well as housing stakeholders such as disability rights organizations, and submit its findings and recommendations by November 1, 2026.
The bill does not allocate funding or authorize new positions, but it is expected to result in an indeterminable increase in state General Fund expenditures in FY 2027. The Department of Business and Economic Affairs indicates that existing staff lack the capacity to complete the required work, suggesting that a temporary full-time position or a third-party consultant may be necessary, with estimated costs potentially reaching up to $500,000. The bill emphasizes the importance of developing mortgage products and lending practices that support universally accessible and inclusive housing models.