The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance affordable housing initiatives, particularly for low-income individuals and families. It updates the definition of housing needs, acknowledging that over 150,000 households spend more than 50% of their income on housing. The legislation emphasizes the importance of providing assistance to marginalized groups, including minorities and individuals with special housing-related needs. Key provisions include new requirements for the allocation of funds from the Washington Housing Trust Fund, mandating that at least 30% be directed to rural projects and prioritizing 10% for organizations led by those disproportionately impacted by homelessness. The bill also streamlines the funding application process and introduces new criteria for evaluating housing projects.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for affordable housing programs, including provisions for long-term viability through competitive grants or loans for major improvements. It mandates annual reporting on funding cycles and demographics served, while also protecting personally identifiable information during monitoring activities. The legislation enhances support for individuals with mental illness and developmental disabilities, requiring that a portion of income from certain institutions be allocated for housing purposes. It updates references to the Department of Commerce, creates a transitional housing operating and rent program, and modifies tax payment structures related to housing. The affordable housing advisory board's membership is increased from 23 to 25 members to ensure broader representation, and outdated provisions are repealed to improve governance and effectiveness in housing assistance programs.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.185.010, 43.185.030, 43.185.070, 43.185.074, 43.185.080, 43.185A.010, 43.185A.020, 43.185B.020, 43.185A.070, 18.85.311, 18.85.321, 39.35D.080, 43.63A.680, 43.79.201, 43.185C.200, 43.185C.210, 47.12.063, 59.24.060, 82.14.400, 82.45.100
Substitute Bill: 43.185.010, 43.185.030, 43.185.070, 43.185.074, 43.185.080, 43.185A.010, 43.185A.020, 43.185B.020, 43.185A.070, 18.85.311, 18.85.321, 39.35D.080, 43.63A.680, 43.79.201, 43.185C.200, 43.185C.210, 47.12.063, 59.24.060, 82.14.400, 82.45.100
Engrossed Substitute: 43.185.010, 43.185.030, 43.185.070, 43.185.074, 43.185.080, 43.185A.010, 43.185A.020, 43.185B.020, 43.185A.070, 18.85.311, 18.85.321, 39.35D.080, 43.63A.680, 43.79.201, 43.185C.200, 43.185C.210, 47.12.063, 59.24.060, 82.14.400, 82.45.100
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.185.010, 43.185.030, 43.185.070, 43.185.074, 43.185.080, 43.185A.010, 43.185A.020, 43.185B.020, 43.185A.070, 18.85.311, 18.85.321, 39.35D.080, 43.63A.680, 43.79.201, 43.185C.200, 43.185C.210, 47.12.063, 59.24.060, 82.14.400, 82.45.100
Session Law: 43.185.010, 43.185.030, 43.185.070, 43.185.074, 43.185.080, 43.185A.010, 43.185A.020, 43.185B.020, 43.185A.070, 18.85.311, 18.85.321, 39.35D.080, 43.63A.680, 43.79.201, 43.185C.200, 43.185C.210, 47.12.063, 59.24.060, 82.14.400, 82.45.100