The bill establishes a public housing task force in Washington State to address the ongoing housing crisis and ensure that all residents have access to adequate housing. The task force will explore the use of publicly constructed, owned, and operated mixed-income housing as a solution to meet future housing demand. It will provide recommendations to the legislature on various aspects, including funding mechanisms for mixed-income housing, the potential use of public lands for housing development, and strategies to create livable communities that incorporate essential amenities. The task force is required to submit a preliminary report by July 1, 2026, and a final report by November 1, 2026, detailing its findings and recommendations.
The bill also emphasizes the need for a statewide housing authority to oversee public housing development and ensure alignment with internationally recognized housing adequacy standards. It recognizes the limitations of local governments in addressing the housing crisis and aims to leverage public land to reduce development costs and maintain long-term affordability. The task force will consist of various stakeholders, including legislative members, representatives from housing finance and ethnic commissions, and individuals with lived experience of housing instability. The task force is set to expire on June 30, 2027.