This bill addresses the ongoing housing shortage in Washington by implementing zoning reforms that promote residential development in commercial and mixed-use zones. It prohibits cities and counties with populations of 30,000 or more from excluding residential uses in these areas, while also limiting the conditions under which mixed-use or ground-floor commercial requirements can be imposed on residential developments. Exceptions to these requirements include properties listed on historic registers, those in business improvement areas, and certain other specified locations. Additionally, the bill allows for height increases in designated areas to facilitate development.

The legislation also outlines specific circumstances under which residential uses may still be restricted, such as in industrial zones, near active oil or gas refineries, or in critical areas. It clarifies that cities are not mandated to issue building permits if other regulations are not met and establishes a timeline for compliance with the new requirements. The bill aims to streamline the development process for affordable housing while ensuring that local regulations do not conflict with these new provisions.