Connecticut House Bill HB05039

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25

Caption

An Act Concerning Inclusion Of Certain Mobile Homes In The Calculation Of The Ten Per Cent Threshold For The Affordable Housing Appeals Procedure Exemption.

Impact

The inclusion of mobile homes in the calculation of the affordable housing appeals procedure exemption impacts how municipalities determine their compliance with state affordable housing mandates. By allowing certain mobile homes that are not deed-restricted and affordable to those earning less than 80% of the median income, this bill facilitates an increase in the number of qualified properties that contribute to the affordable housing stock. This may promote development efforts and encourage local governments to support such housing developments, reflecting a more encompassing definition of what constitutes affordable housing.

Summary

House Bill 05039 seeks to amend current housing legislation by including certain mobile homes in the ten percent threshold calculation for exemptions under the affordable housing appeals procedure. This represents a significant step towards ensuring that a broader range of housing options constitutes affordable housing, specifically targeting mobile manufactured homes that can be purchased by low-income individuals or families. The bill aims to increase accessibility to affordable housing in Connecticut by recognizing the importance of mobile homes as viable options for those in need of lower-cost housing alternatives.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding HB 05039 revolves around the definition of affordable housing and the implications of including mobile homes in this classification. Advocates for the bill argue that it expands opportunities for low-income residents who often struggle to find suitable and affordable living arrangements. However, opponents may raise concerns about the quality and stability of mobile homes as part of the housing landscape, questioning whether this move truly addresses the underlying issues of housing shortages and the long-term viability of mobile home communities. Discussions could emphasize whether this change could lead to a shift in local zoning regulations and the types of housing that municipalities may support.