Virginia 2023 Regular Session

Virginia Senate Bill SB1331

Introduced
1/10/23  

Caption

Affordable housing; local zoning ordinance authority, comprehensive plan.

Impact

The legislation will amend relevant sections of the Code of Virginia, enhancing the authorities of local governments in managing housing development. As part of their comprehensive plans, localities are encouraged to employ strategies such as density increases, allowing for varied building types, and facilitating access to essential services that support affordable housing developments. The overarching goal is to align local development efforts with broader economic and community needs. For instance, the bill emphasizes the importance of integrating housing planning with transportation infrastructure, effectively supporting community integration for the elderly and people with disabilities.

Summary

SB1331 focuses on the promotion and implementation of affordable housing within local jurisdictions in Virginia. The bill mandates that comprehensive plans developed by local planning commissions must include measures for the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of affordable housing. This regulation aims to ensure that localities address the housing needs of residents across various income levels, promoting inclusivity and sustainability within the housing market. A critical aspect is the requirement that these plans do not geographically limit affordable housing opportunities based on income, thereby fostering equitable development.

Contention

Despite the positive outcomes hailed by supporters, the bill is likely to spark debates concerning local control and the extent of state intervention in municipal affairs. Critics may argue that imposing such requirements on localities could inhibit local governments' discretion in managing their communities, particularly in unique contexts where housing needs may differ dramatically. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding potential financial burdens on localities needed to comply with new guidelines and the feasibility of enforcing state standards over local governance in zoning matters.

Companion Bills

VA SB1141

Similar To Affordable housing; local zoning ordinance authority, comprehensive plan.

Previously Filed As

VA HB2047

Affordable housing; amending local zoning ordinance authority.

VA SB1313

Affordable housing; local zoning ordinance authority, comprehensive plan.

VA SB597

Affordable housing; local zoning ordinance authority, comprehensive plan.

VA SB1141

Affordable housing; local zoning ordinance authority, comprehensive plan.

VA HB520

Climate resilience; locality's comprehensive plan to consider strategies to address.

VA SB732

Climate resilience; locality's comprehensive plan to consider strategies to address.

VA HB1674

Comprehensive plan; freight corridors.

VA HB1827

Comprehensive plan; social determinants of health.

VA HB1634

Comprehensive plan; encouraged to consider strategies to address resilience.

VA SB1187

Comprehensive plan; encouraged to consider strategies to address resilience.

Similar Bills

WV SB530

Encouraging public-private partnerships in transportation

WV HB4531

Relating to encouraging public-private partnerships related to transportation facilities

TX SB2096

Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.

TX HB4335

Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority.

MI HB6269

Transportation: funds; funding for urban and rural bus programs; modify. Amends sec. 10e of 1951 PA 51 (MCL 247.660e). TIE BAR WITH: HB 6270'24

CA AB1047

Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017: reporting internet website.

CA SB992

Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017: reporting website.

CA AB2455

Whistleblower protection: state and local government procedures.