The bill H.412 proposes extensive amendments to Vermont's land use and housing development regulations, particularly targeting Act 250 and regional planning. It removes specific definitions and criteria related to road construction that previously triggered jurisdiction under Act 250, while introducing new terms like "infill development" and modifying "mixed use" to highlight the integration of residential and commercial spaces. The bill also establishes exemptions for priority housing projects, allowing expedited construction in designated areas near public services. Additionally, it restructures the Land Use Review Board to ensure diverse representation and revises the process for municipalities to obtain development area statuses, emphasizing adequate planning and capacity.

Moreover, the bill introduces the Vermont Infrastructure Sustainability Fund to support public infrastructure projects that facilitate housing development, with funding administered by the Vermont Bond Bank. It outlines new provisions for tax increment financing (TIF) districts, requiring plans to be approved by the Vermont Economic Progress Council and clarifying debt incurrence rules. The legislation also allocates significant funding for various housing initiatives, including the Vermont Rental Housing Improvement Program and the Manufactured Home Improvement and Repair Program, while ensuring that environmental protections are maintained. Overall, the bill aims to balance housing development needs with environmental considerations, promoting sustainable growth in Vermont communities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-6001, 10-6007, 10-6021, 10-6033, 10-6034, 10-6081, 10-6091, 1-312, 24-5802(f), 24-5802, 24-4348, 24-5803, 24-5804, 10-6089, 24-4465, 24-4471, 10-8504, 32-5930ee, 24-4348a, 10-902, 10-913, 10-914, 10-918, 10-919, 10-1971, 10-1972, 10-1973, 10-1976, 3-2822(j), 3-2822, 10-1628, 10-699, 24-1891, 24-1892, 24-1894(a), 24-1894, 24-1896, 24-1898, 32-5404a, 32-3870, 32-3871, 24-119, 32-5404, 10-29