The bill aims to expand opportunities for affordable housing developments on properties owned by religious organizations in Washington State. It mandates that cities must allow an increased density bonus for affordable housing developments located on such properties, provided that at least 20 percent of the units are set aside for low-income households. The bill also stipulates that these developments must be part of a lease or binding obligation ensuring that the affordable housing units remain dedicated to low-income households for at least fifty years, even if the religious organization no longer owns the property. Additionally, the bill emphasizes non-discrimination in housing based on various factors and encourages collaboration with local transit agencies to ensure adequate transit services for these developments.

Key amendments include the requirement for cities to develop policies to implement these provisions upon request from religious organizations, and the possibility for cities to require a higher percentage of units to be set aside for low-income households to qualify for the density bonus. The definition of "affordable housing development" is modified to clarify that 20 percent of units must be designated for low-income households, and the definition of "low-income household" is adjusted to reflect that adjusted income must be at or below 80 percent of the median family income for the area. The bill also introduces provisions for entities leasing property from religious organizations to be responsible for development fees and costs.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 35.63.280, 35.21.915, 35A.21.360, 36.01.290