Article Summary –
Democrats in the Michigan Legislature are advocating for housing reforms to address the state’s housing crisis, characterized by high costs and aging infrastructure, with proposed legislation aiming to expand housing supply through zoning changes and implement a Fair Chance Access to Housing Act to prevent discrimination based on criminal history. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s 2022 report highlights that a significant portion of residents are burdened by housing costs, with nearly half of the housing units built before 1970 and a decline in new construction permits over the past decades. Advocates argue that the proposed reforms are necessary to improve housing accessibility, enhance economic competitiveness, and reduce recidivism by ensuring stable housing for all residents.
Democrats in the Michigan Legislature are advancing new housing reforms amid the lame-duck session.
Michigan faces a housing crisis due to rising housing costs and outdated infrastructure. Residents and advocates have increased pressure on lawmakers to establish policies for more accessible housing and reduced rents.
Democratic lawmakers proposed bills in November in both the Senate and House to address Michigan’s housing challenges, but limited time remains to deliberate before the term concludes, with the House scheduled to adjourn on Dec. 19.
House Bills 6095–6098 aim to boost housing supply by amending local zoning rules, which sponsors claim hinder diverse housing development, including affordable multi-family units.
Rep. Kristian Grant of Grand Rapids, a bill sponsor, emphasized the need for innovative solutions to enhance Michiganders’ quality of life.
“This legislation enables planners and communities to meet growing demand,” Grant stated. “People need housing that provides stability and meets their needs. It’s a priority from Grand Rapids to Detroit to the U.P.”
Grant highlighted collaboration with community leaders, developers, and builders to find viable housing solutions.
“The status quo won’t suffice. Housing policy that meets demand is essential for Michigan’s economic competitiveness and to retain and attract talent,” Andrea Brown, executive director of the Michigan Association of Planning, remarked.
Lack of adequate housing has hindered Michigan’s economic growth efforts, impacting population growth and business attraction.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s statewide housing plan from 2022 revealed that nearly 48% of renters and 18% of homeowners spent over 30% of their income on housing pre-pandemic. Affordability has worsened since COVID-19.
The report found nearly half of Michigan homes were built before 1970, and new construction permits from 2016-2020 were significantly lower than 1986-2006.
“Decades of disinvestment in affordable housing have led to unbuilt projects due to a cumbersome process. This package offers new pathways to develop housing-rich communities,” Grant commented.
In the Senate, Democratic Sens. Mary Cavanagh and Jeff Irwin introduced Senate Bills 1154 and 1155, proposing the Fair Chance Access to Housing Act.
The legislation would prevent landlords from asking about criminal histories before a conditional offer, with withdrawal allowed if substantial, legitimate reasons exist.
About 2.8 million Michiganders have criminal records, limiting their housing and employment opportunities, increasing risks of homelessness and recidivism, according to the Prison Policy Initiative.
The Senate proposal aligns with guidance from the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Human Development, which recommends alternative screening methods, such as rental history or references, over criminal records.
“Every Michigander deserves a secure home,” Cavanagh stated. “Stable housing decreases recidivism and enhances community safety.”
Both the House and Senate bills await further committee action.
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