Bill > H297

This bill introduces several key provisions aimed at neighborhood stabilization and economic development. It amends existing laws to create a new "Spot Rehabilitation Project" framework that allows community development corporations, non-profit organizations, and redevelopment authorities to purchase and rehabilitate vacant or distressed properties under 10,000 square feet, including single-family homes, multi-unit residential buildings, and small commercial properties. The bill expands definitions of "decadent" and "sub-standard" areas to include properties that are out of repair, physically deteriorated, or economically challenged. It provides these project sponsors with specific powers to acquire, rehabilitate, and sell or lease these properties, with reduced bureaucratic requirements compared to traditional redevelopment projects. Additionally, the bill establishes a commission to study strategies for improving housing stock in weak markets, with a focus on making properties safer, more accessible to people with disabilities, and more resilient to climate change. The commission will include representatives from various stakeholder groups and is required to submit a comprehensive report with recommendations by December 31, 2026. The legislation also modifies environmental liability provisions to protect redevelopment entities under certain conditions when acquiring and rehabilitating properties.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H297