The proposed bill introduces mandatory training requirements for members of various municipal planning-related boards and commissions in Arizona. Starting January 1, 2024, members of municipal planning commissions, zoning commissions, combined planning and zoning commissions, village planning committees, design review committees, and zoning boards of adjustment and appeals must complete at least four hours of training. Existing members must complete this training by January 1, 2025, and then an additional four hours every other year. New members appointed on or after January 1, 2024, must complete the training within one year of their appointment and every other year thereafter. The training will cover process and procedural matters, interpretation of site plans and maps, and the impact of zoning on housing availability and cost. The Arizona Department of Housing is tasked with establishing the training guidelines by January 1, 2024. Failure to complete the training will result in removal from the appointment.

Additionally, the bill makes minor language changes to the current law regarding the Arizona Department of Housing's responsibilities, such as addressing affordable housing issues and maintaining safety standards for housing. It updates a reference to federal legislation from "96-339" to "96-399" and clarifies the department's role in establishing guidelines for municipal board, commission, and committee training. The bill also ensures that the Arizona Department of Housing's actions are consistent with the minimum standards of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, designating it as the state inspector for manufactured homes and related industries.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-461.18, 41-3953