The bill amends sections 45-53-3 and 45-53-4 of the General Laws concerning "Low and Moderate Income Housing," introducing new definitions and requirements for affordable housing plans. It restores the requirement that a local review board issue findings for denial when reviewing a comprehensive permit request. The bill mandates that affordable housing units must be included in each town and city's affordable housing stock upon the granting of building permits. It clarifies that local zoning and land use ordinances must be consistent with local needs, particularly in areas where low- or moderate-income housing exists.

The bill establishes criteria for municipalities to follow in implementing zoning ordinances and land use regulations, promoting the development of affordable housing. It outlines the procedures for local review boards, requiring them to make findings based on legally competent evidence when voting on applications. The bill introduces new required findings for denial of comprehensive permit requests, which include considerations such as consistency with the approved affordable housing plan, local needs, and environmental concerns.

Additionally, the act specifies that affordable housing units shall be included in each town and city when the building permits for said units are granted. The act is set to take effect upon passage.