Since the launch of the “Minnesotans for More Homes” agenda on February 20, the momentum and support for the initiative has continued to grow. HF 4009 (Kraft) was heard in the House Housing Committee that day and received bipartisan and unanimous support.
This week, the Senate is expected to take up many meaningful land-use and zoning bills that seek to improve housing affordability and housing availability.
On Monday, the Senate Transportation Committee will hear SF 4183 as introduced – 93rd Legislature (2023 – 2024) (mn.gov), a bill that helps fix the Minneapolis 2040 plan that was recently thrown out by the courts.
Additionally, bills from both Republicans and Democrats will have a hearing in the Senate Housing Committee.
On Tuesday, SF3303 and SF3080 will be heard.
SF3303 (Lucero) as amended seeks to end these exclusionary zoning policies and restore reasonable homeowner choice on home design.
SF3080 (Draheim) as amended, is a comprehensive approach to addressing several key areas where Minnesota’s housing policies are increasing costs and preventing the creation of needed starter homes.
On Thursday, SF 3980 and SF 3964 will be heard.
SF 3980 (Pha) would establish multifamily residential development in city requirements.
SF 3964 (Mitchell) would establish city minimum residential densities and associated requirements.
“This week is perhaps the most important land-use and zoning discussion we’ve had at the Minnesota legislature in the past thirty years,” said Mark Foster, vice president of legislative & political affairs.
“The fact that there will be both Republican and Democrat bills heard will make the conversation even more meaningful. We look forward to continuing to work with all legislators to find ways to achieve greater housing affordability and housing options for more Minnesotans.”
