The bill S.328, introduced by the Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs, aims to enhance housing development in Vermont through several key provisions. It requires municipal development plans to analyze housing targets and constraints, extends tax credits for the Down Payment Assistance Program until 2031, and caps rent increases for mobile home lots. The bill also authorizes the Vermont Economic Development Authority to finance specific housing projects and establishes the Service-Supported Housing Advisory Council. Additionally, it introduces density bonuses for housing built with union labor and modifies municipal zoning requirements to facilitate the construction of duplexes and multiunit dwellings.

Significant changes to common interest communities are included, such as prohibiting restrictions on unit owners from leasing their units, operating family child care homes, or installing electric vehicle supply equipment, with any conflicting covenants deemed void and unenforceable. The bill mandates municipalities to document progress toward meeting housing needs and outlines a pilot project to explore cost-reduction strategies in housing development through modular construction. It also establishes responsibilities for unit owners regarding Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment maintenance and creates a mediation process for mobile home lot rent increases. Furthermore, the bill amends zoning laws to promote equal treatment of various housing types and appropriates funds for municipal planning grants and housing improvement programs, with an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 32-5930u, 10-6252, 10-212, 24-4412, 24-4303