Bill > SF141

This bill requires the Iowa Finance Authority to establish a Multigenerational and Sustainable Living Task Force to address challenges related to older Iowans and individuals with disabilities aging in place and to promote the development of multigenerational and sustainable housing across Iowa. The task force will consist of sixteen members, including representatives from various housing development sectors, older Iowans, people with disabilities, and government agencies, along with four non-voting legislative members. Members with expertise in community development, architecture, and planning will need to demonstrate knowledge of universal design or be certified aging-in-place specialists. The task force will meet during legislative interims to examine existing building codes, identify successful initiatives, explore funding and tax incentives, review housing plans, identify necessary skills for universal design and sustainability, compile best practices, and investigate the creation of an "Iowa living laboratory" for housing construction and potentially a state housing authority. The task force will submit reports with findings and recommendations to the governor and the general assembly by December 15, 2015, and December 15, 2016, focusing on developing a statewide residential building code with universal design and sustainability standards, establishing a voluntary certification program, and outlining funding for demonstration projects and educational materials.