Bill > H2348

This bill empowers the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to regulate and address exclusionary zoning practices in municipalities. Specifically, the bill requires the executive office to develop regulations that include: (1) a clear definition of exclusionary zoning, which typically refers to local zoning policies that effectively prevent or limit affordable housing development through restrictive land use rules; (2) a formal process allowing residents, developers, and other interested parties to file claims alleging exclusionary zoning practices in a particular municipality; and (3) a comprehensive review mechanism to evaluate and determine whether a municipality has indeed engaged in such practices. If the executive office finds a municipality guilty of exclusionary zoning, the bill grants the agency the authority to take direct control of that municipality's zoning regulations for a minimum of four years. After this four-year period, the municipality may petition to regain control of its zoning policies. This legislation aims to combat housing discrimination and promote more inclusive, affordable housing development by providing a state-level mechanism to challenge and potentially override local zoning restrictions that may unfairly limit housing access.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2348