Housing First Minnesota continues the work of advocating for homeownership for all Minnesotans. Here are a few key updates on action happening in the advocacy space.
Zoning Modernization Announced at the Legislature
In February, the Legislature took the first steps toward a groundbreaking, state-level modernization of Minnesota’s zoning practices.
The “Minnesotans for More Homes” initiative, announced at a press conference with a bipartisan coalition of legislators, attempts to address the housing crisis afflicting the state by allowing the construction of more homes of all types and price points.
This initiative represents the most locally responsive approach to zoning reform in the nation, addressing the unique needs and challenges communities across Minnesota face. Additionally, it aims to increase housing affordability and access by legalizing more housing options across Minnesota.
Unlike previous attempts, the “Minnesotans for More Homes” Initiative is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It recognizes the unique needs of different communities and treats larger and smaller communities differently.
“Across our state, Minnesotans are facing an undersupplied housing market and the highest construction costs in the region,” said James Vagle, CEO of Housing First Minnesota. “The solution is to build more homes of all types, especially those at affordable price points. The proposed legislation does just that. By ending exclusionary zoning and legalizing more housing options, homeownership opportunities will open to more Minnesotans.”
Importantly, this legislation imposes no mandates on cities, property owners, renters, builders, or developers. Instead, it bans exclusionary policies and lifts unfunded mandates, empowering property owners to select their housing options and amenities.
By placing guardrails on local zoning powers, the initiative ensures that communities can grow sustainably. It encourages infill development and promotes the efficient use of land where municipal infrastructure already exists, ultimately reducing the need for new municipal spending and increasing affordability.
Housing First Minnesota is excited to support this meaningful legislation, which will have a transformative impact on housing in Minnesota, as it progresses throughout the legislative session.
Other Bills to Watch
At the mid-way point of the 2024 legislative session, there are numerous bills in the mix that have an impact on the industry, your business, and your homebuyers. The Housing First Minnesota advocacy team is working around the clock to advocate for policies that will have a positive impact on the future of Minnesota’s housing market.
“Housing First Minnesota members have the potential to be impacted in very meaningful ways by some of the legislative items that are currently being discussed at the Capitol,” said Mark Foster, vice president of legislative and political affairs at Housing First Minnesota. “Our team is defending the industry against harmful provisions and advocating for homebuyers every step of the way.”
Here’s a run-down of other items that have been considered or are currently being considered by the Legislature.
- Independent contractor changes in the construction industry: A bill that would change the current nine-factor test for the determination of independent contractor status to a 14-factor test is under consideration. Additionally, this language has many pieces to it that would include severe penalties for violations of misclassifications. Housing First Minnesota’s legislative counsel, Peter Coyle, has testified numerous times in legislative committees with concerns.
- License to paint: Language that would have required paint contractors to sit for an exam to get a license to buy certain types of paint was originally introduced and scheduled for a hearing. The bill was later withdrawn and has not been heard since.
- Preempting municipalities from banning natural gas in residential construction: This language would protect natural gas as a fuel source for residential construction. Housing First Minnesota testified in support of this language in the Senate, and it could be included in an omnibus bill.
- Residential Energy Code changes: A bill that would change the way the residential energy code is adopted is currently being discussed. As always Housing First Minnesota advocates for a balance between energy efficiency, durability, and affordability. Expect further discussion on this item.
- Ban on new single-family for rent: This topic gained some coverage last year and would have originally not allowed the construction of new construction of single-family homes that would be rentals. Housing First Minnesota worked with legislators to gain greater clarity and an exemption for builders and developers who do this kind of work. The bill is awaiting additional discussion.
- Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan Fix: Cities, developers, and environmental groups are working together to earn a legislative fix following the court’s dismissal of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Housing First Minnesota is supportive.
- Electric-vehicle requirements in single-family construction: Following new requirements that required electric-vehicle infrastructure in commercial and some multifamily settings, new legislation that would require electric-vehicle infrastructure in single-family homes is also being discussed. Housing First Minnesota is working with the legislative authors.
- New lobbying requirements at city halls: The Campaign Finance Board and the Minnesota Legislature are currently discussing what should and should not be considered lobbying at the Capitol and within political subdivisions. Housing First Minnesota is working with the broader government relations community to gain greater clarity.
