House advances housing bill to encourage supportive, transitional and emergency housing with local protections

House Bill 22‑66, a substitute measure aimed at encouraging permanent supportive housing, transitional housing and indoor emergency shelters, was advanced and passed after a series of technical and policy amendments focused on local control and community engagement.

Representative Lowe (30th District) described amendments that protect schools and provide cities and counties the opportunity to decline siting if facilities would congregate too closely. "This particular amendment really puts some protections in around our schools and, making sure that we don't have too many of these shelters congregating close together," Lowe said while urging a yes vote on amendment 2,000.

Other amendments required more than one community meeting, clarified existing interlocal agreements, and added transparency provisions about facility operations and exit plans. Sponsors framed the bill as an evolution in policy that balances statewide standards with local input and provides a clearer path for developers and jurisdictions to deliver housing solutions.

On final passage, the clerk recorded 56 yays, 40 nays and 2 excused and the bill was declared passed. Supporters said the measure will help cities and counties plan consistent standards for emergency housing and supportive services; some local officials and members asked for continued negotiation on local control and operational safeguards.

Next step: The bill will be transmitted to the Senate; implementation details are expected to include guidance for interlocal agreements and community engagement plans.