Connecticut

HB 5390, also known as the “Work, Live, Ride” bill, failed to reach the governor’s desk before the close of Connecticut’s legislative session on May 8th.

Last week, Connecticut’s House of Representatives passed H.B. 5474, an expansive housing bill that, among other provisions, incentivizes towns to allow more duplexes and townhomes and allows for abandoned nursing homes to be converted into affordable housing without a special zoning hearing.

Senate Bill 416, legislation that would require Connecticut towns to permit commercial-to-residential conversion projects without a special zoning hearing, passed the state Senate on Wednesday. 

According to local housing and economic development experts, Connecticut’s housing shortage is hurting the state’s economy. 

An amended version of HB 5390, a bill that would encourage housing development near public transit hubs, passed the House Planning and Development Committee last week.

Andréa Comer, Executive Director of Educators for Excellence-Connecticut, outlines why affordable housing approaches must always include input from educators.