The bill amends Section 45-53-4 of the General Laws in Chapter 45-53, "Low and Moderate Income Housing," to streamline the approval process for construction projects aimed at low- or moderate-income housing. It allows applicants to submit a single comprehensive permit application, provided that at least 25% of the housing units are designated for low- or moderate-income residents. The bill introduces municipal subsidies and zoning incentives to offset costs, specifies density bonuses based on the percentage of low- or moderate-income housing, and restricts municipalities from imposing limitations on comprehensive permit applications, such as parking space requirements. Notably, it includes a provision that excludes certain properties in Tiverton from buildable land density calculations.

Additionally, the bill outlines a revised review process for comprehensive permit applications, requiring a proposed timetable for construction and a certification of completeness for preliminary plan applications within twenty-five days. It mandates local review boards to render decisions within ninety days, with automatic approval if they fail to act. The bill establishes a two-year vesting period for approved plans, allows municipalities to impose fees on applications, and requires that all written decisions be recorded within twenty days. It also imposes a temporary moratorium on comprehensive permit applications by private for-profit developers to allow communities time to prepare housing plans, with specific provisions for compliance and reporting. Overall, the bill aims to facilitate affordable housing development while ensuring local regulations and needs are addressed.

Statutes affected:
1107: 45-53-4