Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont (D) on Wednesday signed a housing bill aimed at addressing the state’s shortage of доступное жилье.
H.B. 5002, a “much-debated” bill, according to CT Insider, passed during a special session in early November. The bill is a compromise from the version that Lamont had vetoed in June, which was followed by a special session to allow lawmakers more time to revise the legislation.
“I think for housing to continue growing successfully, it has to be led by our towns, it has to be led by our first selectmen, it has to be led by our mayors,” Lamont said at a news conference. “I just don’t think it works if it’s us against them.”
After months of negotiations, the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities and Council of Small Towns backed the new bill alongside the governor. The bill passed the Коннектикут House of Representatives and Senate during the special session, with most Democrats in support and all Republicans opposed.
Among several provisions, the bill requires towns to submit housing growth plans and rewards those that meet certain standards.
The measure also makes it easier for developers to convert commercial property for Жилой use; encourages development near public transit; eliminates minimum parking requirements for small apartment complexes; expands fair rent commissions; supports public housing construction; and bans “hostile infrastructure” that targets people experiencing бездомность.
Supporters say the measure will help towns plan for future housing needs, while critics argue it weakens local control and imposes new mandates on municipalities. Republican lawmakers opposed the bill, saying the special session process limited public input.
Connecticut faces rising homelessness and rents, with estimates suggesting a shortage of more than 100,000 affordable units for low-income residents. Lamont is expected to hold a public signing next week, according to his office.
English