The bill amends the Vermont Rental Housing Improvement Program by introducing new provisions that allow the Department to collaborate with various organizations and exempts certain entities from specific lending regulations. It adjusts funding limits for grants and forgivable loans, adding an extra $20,000 for units that meet visitability standards. The bill updates tenant eligibility criteria to prioritize support for households exiting homelessness, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. It also establishes a minimum funding allocation, ensuring that at least 30% of funds are reserved for five-year grants or forgivable loans. Additionally, the bill creates the Vermont Manufactured Home Improvement and Repair Program and the Vermont Infrastructure Sustainability Fund, which will enhance public infrastructure necessary for housing development.

Moreover, the bill introduces significant amendments to existing laws regarding housing protections, prohibiting landlords from charging application fees and expanding definitions of harassment and discrimination to include citizenship and immigration status. It establishes the State Housing and Residential Services Planning Committee to develop housing strategies for individuals with developmental disabilities and mandates various reports on housing infrastructure and tax increment financing. The bill also updates safety standards for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in single-family dwellings, specifying installation requirements and certification processes for sellers. Overall, the bill aims to enhance housing equity, streamline land use processes, and improve safety standards in residential properties.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-699, 24-119, 32-5930u, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503, 10-6604c, 10-6641, 32-3325, 32-5811(21)(C), 32-5811, 32-5811(21), 32-3800
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 10-699, 24-119, 32-5930u, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503, 10-6604c, 10-6641, 32-3325, 9-77, 20-2731, 32-5811(21)(C), 32-5811, 32-5811(21), 32-3800
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 10-699, 24-119, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503, 10-6604c, 10-6641, 32-3325, 9-77, 20-2731
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 10-699, 24-119, 32-5930u, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503, 10-6604c, 10-6641, 32-3325, 9-77, 20-2731, 32-5811(21)(C), 32-5811, 32-5811(21), 32-3800, 32-5404, 32-6069, 9-4456a
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 10-699, 24-119, 32-5404, 32-6069, 9-4456a, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503, 10-6604c, 10-6641, 32-3325, 9-77, 20-2731
As Enacted: 10-699, 24-119, 32-5404, 32-6069, 9-4456a, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503, 10-6604c, 10-6641, 32-3325, 9-77, 20-2731