SB388 Affordable housing religious organizations and other nonprofit tax-exempt properties

Introductions

House

Floor Introduction

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, SB388 is cognate to my HB1279_Affordable_housing_religious_organizations_and_other_nonprofit_tax-exempt_properties.

This bill allows religious institutions and nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations to build affordable housing by right on land they already own, so long as most of the units are income-restricted and the projects follow environmental, health, and safety laws.

Mr. Speaker, Virginia is in a severe housing crisis. There are congregations around our commonwealth that have land and a mission to serve— but today, local barriers make it too hard to turn that land into homes.

This bill fixes that by creating a clear, accessible path. It requires long-term affordability and a solution. And, for localities, more taxable property.

The patron has worked with stakeholders diligently to find a balance between local interests and those ready to build. Additionally, the House has added a reenactment clause to the bill.

I hope it will be the will of the body to engross the bill and pass it along to its third reading.

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