The bill establishes a public housing task force in Washington State to address the ongoing housing crisis and the severe shortage of affordable housing. The task force is tasked with exploring a public housing paradigm to meet future housing demands, particularly through the development of mixed-income housing. It will review various funding mechanisms, land inventories, and governance changes necessary to enhance the state's housing strategy. The task force is required to submit a preliminary report by July 1, 2026, and a final report by November 1, 2026, detailing recommendations for restructuring public housing development and creating livable communities.
The bill 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 historical disinvestment in public housing and aims to leverage public land to reduce development costs and maintain long-term affordability. The task force will consist of diverse members, including legislators, representatives from various housing and ethnic commissions, and individuals with lived experience of housing instability. The task force is expected to meet regularly and provide updates on its findings, with the section of the bill establishing the task force set to expire on June 30, 2027.