The bill addresses the housing crisis in Washington State by promoting the development of various types of housing, including permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, and indoor emergency shelters. It mandates that local governments permit these housing types in urban growth areas where residential units or hotels are allowed, ensuring they are treated similarly to other lodging and residential developments. The legislation aims to streamline the permitting process, reduce costs and delays, and establish objective and nondiscriminatory development standards to protect public health and safety. Key provisions include prohibiting overly restrictive regulations, allowing variances from local design review standards for indoor emergency shelters, and ensuring that local governments cannot limit the capacity of these shelters in a way that fails to meet projected needs.

Additionally, the bill requires local governments to adopt or amend their development regulations to align with the new requirements within two years or during their next comprehensive plan update, clarifying that these new regulations will supersede any conflicting local laws. It introduces definitions related to housing and environmental justice, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment in environmental decision-making. Importantly, the act does not apply retroactively to existing housing facilities, ensuring they remain compliant with prior local regulations. Overall, the bill seeks to facilitate the creation of safe and stable housing options to effectively combat homelessness in the state.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 35.21.683, 35A.21.430, 36.130.020
Substitute bill: 35.21.683, 35A.21.430, 36.130.020