The bill amends the Wyoming Urban Renewal Code to expand its application to include the provision of affordable housing. It introduces new findings that highlight the lack of affordable housing in municipalities, which is deemed detrimental to public health, safety, and welfare. The bill defines "affordable housing" as housing where the total gross household income of the occupant does not exceed 120% of the median gross household income for the county. Additionally, it modifies existing definitions related to "blighted areas" and "urban renewal projects" to incorporate the provision of affordable housing as a key objective.

Key amendments include the requirement for municipalities to prioritize the development of affordable housing in urban renewal areas and to consider this objective when formulating workable programs. The bill also stipulates that municipalities must adopt resolutions confirming the need for affordable housing before initiating urban renewal projects. Furthermore, it allows municipalities to acquire property for affordable housing projects through eminent domain, with specific protections for residential properties. The act is set to take effect immediately upon completion of legislative processes, with certain provisions becoming effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15-9-102, 15-9-103, 15-9-104, 15-9-105, 15-9-106, 15-9-107, 15-9-110, 15-9-114, 15-9-115, 15-9-116, 15-9-120