The bill amends RCW 36.70A.070 to strengthen comprehensive planning requirements for counties and cities in Washington, with a particular emphasis on residential development in limited areas of more intensive rural development. It requires comprehensive plans to include a land use element that prioritizes environmental justice, wildfire risk mitigation, and groundwater quality protection. Additionally, the housing element must focus on preserving and developing diverse housing options, including affordable housing, while addressing displacement and racially disparate impacts. The bill mandates the development of at least four units per lot in predominantly residential zones, increasing to at least six units if two are designated as affordable housing.

Moreover, the bill establishes specific requirements for rural elements in comprehensive plans, allowing for limited areas of more intensive rural development while preventing low-density sprawl. It emphasizes the need for local governments to set logical boundaries for these areas and to adopt measures that limit the expansion of existing intensive developments. The legislation also includes a comprehensive inventory of state-owned transportation facilities and mandates the establishment of multimodal level of service standards. Local jurisdictions are required to adopt ordinances that prevent development approvals that would degrade transportation service levels unless concurrent improvements are made. Additionally, a climate change and resiliency element is introduced, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing community resilience, particularly for overburdened communities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70A.070