Bill would require zoning to allow some religious housing projects

Local zoning rules would have to allow the project as a permitted use. A religious developer is a religious institution or a developer working on its behalf. The institution must be an IRS-recognized tax-exempt church, denomination, or religious organization. The religious institution must own the property, and the local legislative body must approve the development. Every home must be reserved for households earning no more than 80% of the area's median income. The developer must obtain all other permits required by law, including building permits. The rule takes effect July 1, 2026. Conflicting zoning rules adopted earlier would be void to the extent of the conflict, but the rule would not affect applications submitted before that date that are pending or already approved on that date.