SB 400 (2022)

This bill is aimed at modifying various processes and tax credits to encourage workforce housing.

First, this bill requires the Office and Planning Development to develop standard self-training materials and corresponding tests for zoning boards of adjustment and planning boards. The Office of Planning and Development must provide those materials and tests to board members for free.

Second, the bill requires towns and cities to publicly post a list of fees for any land use applications.

Third, if a town or city offers incentives for the development of housing for older persons, this bill requires the municipality to offer the same incentives for the development of workforce housing. Incentives might include, for example, increased density or expedited approval.

Fourth, this bill revises the definition of "inclusionary zoning." For example, this bill adds the statement, "Inclusionary zoning ordinances shall include standards that do not reduce the economic viability of developments in comparison to developments that do not require housing affordability."

Fifth, when a local planning or zoning board denies an application, this bill requires the board to include specific written findings of fact that support the decision.

Sixth, this bill requires the Zoning Board of Adjustment to act on an application within 90 days, unless the applicant allows an extension.

Seventh, the bill clarifies that "workforce housing" cannot include age restrictions.

Eighth, this bill makes various changes to the timeline and appeals process for zoning decisions and the process for fees for posting of bonds.

Ninth, this bill authorizes municipalities to establish municipal economic development and revitalization districts to construct workforce housing or generally increase the available housing stock.

Tenth, this bill extends the maximum duration of the community revitalization tax relief incentive for new housing, particularly workforce housing.

Lastly, this bill establishes a voluntary housing champion certification program for qualifying municipalities to promote the development of workforce housing and "other types of housing necessary for the economic development of the state." Municipalities would be eligible for preferential access to state resources such as discretionary state infrastructure funds.

The Senate added many parts of this bill to HB 1661.