Georgia House Democrats roll out bipartisan package to boost affordable housing

Georgia House Democrats introduced legislation Monday to address affordable housing concerns in the state.

State Reps. Mary Margaret Oliver, D-Decatur, and Phil Olaleye, D-Atlanta, along with others, introduced a package of bipartisan legislation aimed at expanding housing supply, protecting tenants and encouraging affordable housing development, according to a news release.

“We know Georgians are struggling with housing costs, and lawmakers have a responsibility to respond,” Oliver said in a statement. “While we represent different regions and perspectives, we are united in our commitment to improving housing options and affordability for families across the state.”

The following bills are included in the package.

• House Bill 1145 would provide a statewide homestead exemption for certain public service employees from ad valorem taxes with some stipulations.
• House Bill 1153 would provide a tax credit for newly constructed residences that are sold to taxpayers who earn no more than 80% of the area median income.
• House Bill 1166 would provide that zoning decisions cannot impact or be required for certain residential dwellings of 400 square feet or less.
• House Bill 1171 would establish minimum habitability standards consistent with recognized housing standards.
• House Bill 1177 would provide that certain affordable housing uses of property qualify as projects that may be undertaken by development authorities.
• House Bill 1221 would require property owners’ associations to provide written notice of certain sums and other provisions.

“Work groups representing landlords and tenants, buyers and sellers are meeting together to develop a coordinated, balanced approach to housing legislation—one we believe can move forward cooperatively this session,” Olaleye said.