Indiana 2024 Regular Session

Indiana House Bill HB1108

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/18/24  
Engrossed
1/24/24  
Refer
2/5/24  
Report Pass
2/19/24  
Enrolled
2/27/24  
Passed
3/11/24  
Chaptered
3/11/24  

Caption

Development restrictions on slopes.

Impact

The introduction of HB 1108 could lead to significant changes in the landscape of local governance in Indiana, particularly regarding land use and development. By removing slope-based restrictions for less steep lands, the bill facilitates increased development opportunities, aiming to streamline the approval processes by local authorities. This move is anticipated to encourage construction and economic development by allowing more projects to proceed without the hindrance of existing local ordinances interpreted as overly restrictive. However, the bill also raises questions about environmental considerations and the potential impact on local ecosystems.

Summary

House Bill 1108 addresses development restrictions based on the slope of a site within the state of Indiana. Specifically, the bill prohibits local governments from adopting or enforcing ordinances that would effectively restrict development on land with a predevelopment slope of less than 25%. If enacted, this legislation would come into effect on July 1, 2024, and aims to enable more flexibility in land development, particularly in areas that may have been previously subject to stricter slope-related regulations. The bill is a response to concerns raised by developers about the limitations imposed by local ordinances.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards HB 1108 is mixed, reflecting a division among stakeholders. Proponents, primarily from the development sector, view the bill as a positive shift that will foster growth, lower barriers to construction, and enhance property rights. In contrast, opponents, including some local government advocates and environmentalists, express concerns over the potential consequences for land use planning and environmental protections. Critics fear that easing these restrictions may lead to inadequate consideration of environmental impacts and community needs, emphasizing the balance between development and ecological preservation.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB 1108 include the debate over local control versus state-level mandates. Opponents argue that the legislation undermines local governments' authority to enact land use policies that are specifically designed to cater to the unique characteristics and needs of their communities. Furthermore, there is apprehension that this bill may lead to unregulated development that could compromise the sustainability of local resources, particularly in sensitive ecological areas. This tension between advancing development interests and protecting local governance frameworks remains a critical aspect of the ongoing discussions about the bill's implications.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IN HB1639

Watershed development commissions.

IN HB1565

Indicia of firearms restrictions on license.

IN HB1418

Annexation of residential developments.

IN HB1569

Restrictions on DOC provision of gender therapy.

IN HB1601

Exemption from permitting requirements.

IN HB1157

Residential housing development program.

IN HB1160

Workforce development pilot programs.

IN HB1210

Indiana destination development corporation board.

IN HB1209

Destination development corporation foundation.

IN HB1084

Sex offender residency restrictions.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.