Bill > HB1022

This bill creates a statewide pilot program called the "Homes for Heroes" initiative to provide down payment and closing cost assistance to essential workers and service members. The program, to be implemented by the Washington State Department of Commerce in partnership with the housing finance commission, will offer interest-free loans up to $25,000 or five percent of the first mortgage (whichever is less) to income-eligible workers in targeted occupations. Eligible professions include first responders (like firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical technicians), healthcare workers (nurses, physicians assistants, mental health professionals), educators (paraeducators), social workers, child care workers, and military service members or veterans. To qualify, individuals must have a household income below 100 percent of the state median income. The pilot program is funded with $15,000,000, will stop making new loans after June 30, 2027, and requires the housing finance commission to submit preliminary and final reports to the legislature about the program's results. The bill aims to address both the state's workforce crisis and housing affordability challenges by helping critical workers achieve homeownership.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1022&Year=2025&Initiative=false