Connecticut House Bill HB05339

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/19
• Refer: 1/15/19

Caption

An Act Permitting Municipalities To Prohibit The Construction Of New Affordable Housing In Certain Circumstances.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05339 would significantly alter state laws concerning the development of affordable housing. By granting municipalities the ability to restrict new affordable housing projects if they can justify their efforts to develop specific areas, the bill could lead to a reduction in affordable housing options in areas that may be deemed less suitable for such developments. This could also contribute to increasing housing prices in the long term if fewer affordable units are available, impacting low-income residents who rely on such housing.

Summary

House Bill 05339 introduces provisions that allow municipalities to prohibit the construction of new affordable housing in specific areas under certain circumstances. This bill mandates that a municipality must demonstrate a good faith effort towards the development of an area before it can exercise the option to impose such a prohibition. The intent behind the bill is to provide local governments with flexibility in managing their housing supply and development plans, which some believe may better align with community needs and priorities.

Contention

The bill is likely to stir debate among lawmakers and community stakeholders. Proponents may argue that this measure preserves the integrity of municipalities and allows them to tailor housing development to meet local conditions and needs. However, opponents could contend that it effectively undermines efforts to address housing shortages and exacerbates the existing affordability crisis by limiting development options where they are most needed. The ability for municipalities to restrict affordable housing construction could also disproportionately impact marginalized communities, raising concerns about equity and access to reasonable living conditions.