Major Housing Bills Await Action
Connecticut’s housing crisis has been one of the major talking points for legislators and advocacy groups this legislative session.
Developing more housing options is a feature of CBIA’s 2023 Transform Connecticut policy solutions.
Throughout the session, CBIA has worked with legislators from both sides of the aisle to create legislation that incentivizes the development of more affordable options.
Lawmakers are considering several bills that will promote development, a key issue for addressing the state’s worker shortage.
SB 985, which was introduced by the Lamont administration and awaits action by the Senate, incentivizes the production of middle market housing in downtown areas.
CBIA’s Pete Myers told the legislature’s Planning and Development Committee earlier in the session that the bill will “help solve two problems at once by creating more housing by utilizing previously constructed vacant buildings.”
“Another part of this bill that CBIA is supportive of is the development of housing in our downtowns and around transit stations,” he said.
Opportunity Zones
SB 4, which also awaits Senate action, incentivizes the development of workforce housing in the state’s opportunity zones.
The bill includes a section providing tax credits for individuals or businesses who make financial contributions to developments.
That provision is supported by CBIA and the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities as it maintains local zoning control.
Three other housing measures await action in the state House:
- HB 6633 calls for a statewide assessment of affordable housing needs and requires cities and towns to plan and zone for a needs-based number of units.
- HB 6890 features incentives to promote the development of more high-density housing focused around transit districts.
- HB 6781 requires municipalities to develop fair housing plans by Jan. 1, 2024, along with a series of other measures, including changes to the real estate conveyance tax and bond funding for developments.
For more information, contact CBIA’s Pete Myers (860.244.1921).
RELATED
EXPLORE BY CATEGORY
Stay Connected with CBIA News Digests
The latest news and information delivered directly to your inbox.