Senate finance panel advances regional tourism update with new option for essential government employee housing

Senate Bill 18 49 — an update to the Regional Tourism Development District Act of 2019 to add the Boones Creek area — was before the Finance Committee on April 14. The sponsor, Chairman Crow, described the district addition and the committee considered a Finance amendment moved by Senator Johnson that would create the "Essential Government Employee Housing Act of 2026."

Senator Johnson said the amendment is permissive and would authorize eligible local governments (those with the highest bond ratings) to develop, finance and operate housing for essential public employees, allowing partnerships with private entities and use of established financing tools to address workforce housing needs for critical county personnel and teachers.

The committee adopted the finance amendment by voice vote and then moved and recommended Senate Bill 18 49 as amended for passage to the calendar. No registered public testimony was recorded during the committee action on this item in the transcript provided.