Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1216

Introduced

4/11/24

Refer

4/11/24

Failed

4/15/24

Caption

Creating a housing cooperative conversion revolving loan fund and loan program and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The bill mandates that at least 50 percent of the units in housing cooperatives receiving funding must be designated as affordable housing, defined as housing costing no more than 30 percent of 80 percent of the area median income. This addresses the critical shortage of affordable housing in many areas of Wisconsin and aims to stabilize housing costs for low-to-moderate income families. Furthermore, the establishment of this fund could alter the dynamics of local housing markets by increasing the availability of affordable housing options.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1216 introduces a housing cooperative conversion revolving loan fund aimed at providing financial assistance for housing cooperatives that wish to construct or acquire resident-owned housing. The bill specifically allows for loans to be issued by the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) to facilitate the development of manufactured or mobile home communities and multi-family apartment complexes. This initiative is framed as a response to the growing need for affordable housing solutions, promoting resident ownership as a viable alternative to traditional rental markets.

Contention

While AB1216 seeks to address affordable housing needs, it could face opposition regarding its implementation and the defined terms of 'affordable housing.' Critics might argue that the bill does not adequately resolve issues surrounding existing housing inequality or that the requirements placed on cooperatives may be too stringent. The bill's requirement that funds be returned immediately upon sale, unless sold to a current resident under specific conditions, may also create administrative burdens that could deter prospective borrowers.