Bill > HB1859

This bill expands opportunities for affordable housing developments on properties owned by religious organizations by requiring cities and counties to allow increased density bonuses for such projects. Specifically, it mandates that at least 50% of the development must be for low-income households (those earning at or below 80% of the median family income) or at least 20% must be for very low-income households (those earning at or below 50% of the median family income), with monthly housing costs not exceeding 30% of their income. These affordability requirements must be maintained for at least 50 years through a binding obligation, even if the religious organization no longer owns the property. The bill also clarifies that religious organizations or entities leasing their property for these developments are responsible for all associated fees and costs, and it requires cities and counties to develop policies to implement these provisions, while also allowing them to require a higher percentage of affordable units.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1859&Year=2025&Initiative=false