Bill > SB257

This bill authorizes local governments in Georgia to establish voluntary affordable family housing assistance programs starting January 1, 2026, designed to help low-income and very low-income households access housing. The programs would be overseen by the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS), which will require local governments to apply for a certificate of approval and develop specific guidelines. Local governments can create trust funds to provide financial assistance like loans, grants, and guarantees to eligible recipients, with the goal of either constructing or rehabilitating affordable housing or helping individuals with rent and security deposit expenses. To qualify for assistance, housing projects must reserve at least 40% of units for low-income persons and 20% for very low-income persons. The bill defines affordable housing as residential dwellings where housing costs do not exceed 30% of the median household income for the county, and establishes detailed definitions for terms like "low-income person" and "very low-income person". Local governments must submit annual reports to DFCS detailing the use of funds and assistance provided, and the division will annually determine median household incomes to establish eligibility criteria. The bill aims to create a structured, voluntary framework for local governments to address housing affordability challenges across Georgia.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70792