The bill amends Chapter 45-53 of the General Laws regarding "Low and Moderate Income Housing" by introducing a new section, 45-53-17, which facilitates the development of affordable housing by faith-based organizations. It allows applicants to submit a single comprehensive permit application for low- or moderate-income housing on land owned by religious organizations, associations, or societies, or nonprofit organizations operated, supervised, or controlled by them, instead of requiring separate applications to local boards. To qualify, at least 50% of the housing must be designated as low- or moderate-income, the land must be owned or held in trust by the faith-based organization at the time of application, and the organization must have held federal tax-exempt nonprofit status for at least three years prior to application.

Additionally, the bill permits applicants to request adjustments for ancillary uses that support the mission of the faith-based organization, including childcare, educational, and community service facilities, or small-scale commercial uses not exceeding 2,000 square feet of gross floor area. It establishes a streamlined review process for applications, specifying that they are not subject to certain public hearing requirements and must be acted upon within 90 days of certification. The bill also includes provisions to protect historical properties, stating that it does not limit or override existing historical preservation laws, and ensures compliance with federal and state fair housing laws. This act will take effect upon passage.