Committee advances bill easing costs for Habitat for Humanity projects in the Keys

Representative Mooney presented CS for House Bill 755 as a measure to advance affordable workforce housing in Monroe County while protecting the Florida Keys' character. He said the bill would make construction performance bonds optional for Habitat for Humanity builds in the Keys — reducing per-home costs by roughly $10,000 — and extend authorization for land-acquisition set‑asides under the Florida Keys Stewardship Act for an additional 10 years.

Scott Goss (Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys) and Robert Reyes (Monroe County) registered support. Representative Henson and others praised Mooney's work on housing and conservation in the Keys. The committee clerk called the roll and CS/HB 755 was reported favorably.

The sponsors said the bill is intended to reduce development barriers for nonprofit affordable housing and to continue a partnership between FDEP and Monroe County for land acquisition and conservation.