The bill aims to enhance community and transit-oriented housing development in Washington State by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions that align land use policies with mass transit investments. It emphasizes the creation of affordable housing options and vibrant urban environments while allowing for regulatory flexibility and local control. Key amendments include redefining "affordable housing" as housing costs not exceeding 30% of a household's income, expanding definitions of various housing types, and highlighting the importance of active transportation facilities and environmental justice in development policies.

New regulations mandate that cities cannot prohibit multifamily housing in areas designated for residential use and must allow new developments at specified transit-oriented densities. The bill requires a minimum of 10% of residential units to be affordable for at least 50 years and allows increased density for affordable housing projects. It also addresses displacement risks by permitting cities to seek density requirement extensions in high-risk areas and establishes a work group to develop antidisplacement strategies. Additional provisions include prohibiting off-street parking requirements in designated station areas, allowing categorical exemptions from environmental review for certain housing developments, and ensuring that governing documents cannot conflict with the bill's objectives.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70A.500, 36.70A.620, 43.21C.229
Substitute Bill: 36.70A.500, 36.70A.620, 43.21C.229
Second Substitute: 43.21C.229
Engrossed Second Substitute: 43.21C.229