S. 1299: Housing Supply Frameworks Act

The Housing Supply Frameworks Act is a proposed legislation aimed at addressing the shortage of affordable housing in the United States. The bill primarily focuses on reforming state and local zoning practices to encourage the development of more housing units. Here’s a summary of the main points:

Objectives of the Bill

• The bill aims to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to publish guidelines and best practices for state and local zoning frameworks.
• It seeks to provide federal support for state and local governments in their efforts to reform regulations that currently inhibit housing development.
• The bill intends to address the housing shortage, particularly in the context of affordable housing.

Guidelines Development

Within three years of the bill's enactment, the Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research at HUD is required to:

• Develop and publish documents detailing best practices and guidelines meant to help communities meet housing needs across various income levels.
• Consult with various stakeholders including planners, housing developers, community members, and public authorities to ensure a comprehensive approach. This consultation will include a two-year public comment period for the draft guidelines.

Contents of Guidelines

The guidelines are to cover several aspects of zoning frameworks, including but not limited to:

• Recommendations for reducing or eliminating parking requirements and increasing maximum building heights.
• Guidance on creating more accessible housing options, like accessory dwelling units and multi-family units in urban areas.
• Mechanisms for zoning reforms to facilitate transit-oriented development and to streamline review processes for housing proposals.
• Encouragement for local governments to develop zoning codes that are easier to understand and follow, particularly in rural, suburban, and urban settings.
• Consideration of fair housing requirements and civil rights when developing new zoning practices.

Accountability and Reporting

After five years of implementing these guidelines, the Assistant Secretary will be required to report to Congress on:

• The states and localities that have adopted the recommendations.
• Modifications made to state and local zoning frameworks.
• The impacts of these changes on building permits and housing supply.

Financial Aspects

The bill includes a provision for funding, authorizing an appropriation of $3 million for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2030 to support its implementation.

Abolishment of Existing Clearinghouse

In conjunction with this new framework, the bill proposes the abolition of the existing Regulatory Barriers Clearinghouse established in 1992, which has been underperforming in effectively addressing barriers to housing development.

Impacts on Communities

By implementing these guidelines, the bill aims to alleviate the housing shortage faced by many communities, especially those with high levels of cost-burdened households. The bill promotes an increase in housing supply by removing unnecessary regulatory barriers and providing a structured framework for state and local governments to follow.

Relevant Companies

• None found