The bill aims to improve compliance with housing element requirements under the Growth Management Act by establishing a structured review process for counties and cities that opt to plan under RCW 36.70A.040. It mandates these jurisdictions to submit their housing elements and related development regulations to the department for review, ensuring alignment with specified laws. The bill outlines a notification timeline, requiring jurisdictions to inform the department at least 120 days before seeking approval and to submit applications within 10 days after final action on amendments. It also stipulates that housing elements and regulations will not take effect until the department issues a final compliance decision. Additionally, the bill introduces a compliance determination process, allowing the department to issue decisions within 90 days of receiving applications, and requires noncompliant jurisdictions to amend their housing elements within 120 days.

Moreover, the bill modifies existing laws regarding the growth management hearings board and the review process for comprehensive plans, requiring petitions for review to include detailed statements of issues and establishing a timeline for filing petitions related to housing elements. It clarifies that the board's decisions must focus on compliance with relevant laws and regulations. The bill also amends the presumption of validity for comprehensive plans to include housing elements and outlines responsibilities for periodic reviews to ensure compliance. It specifies that only compliant jurisdictions may receive financial assistance and mandates progress reports on comprehensive plan implementation. Additionally, certain actions taken to implement housing requirements are exempt from administrative or judicial appeals, streamlining the adoption process. The act is titled the "Housing Accountability Act" and includes a severability clause.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70A.290, 36.70A.320, 36.70A.130
Substitute Bill: 36.70A.290, 36.70A.130
Second Substitute: 36.70A.290, 36.70A.130
Engrossed Second Substitute: 36.70A.290, 36.70A.130, 43.155.070
Bill as Passed Legislature: 36.70A.290, 36.70A.320, 36.70A.130
Session Law: 36.70A.290, 36.70A.320, 36.70A.130