LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Jonathan Lindsey introduced legislation to help reverse Michigan’s current lack of housing and the stagnant development of new homes.
“Michigan is facing a housing crisis that is preventing many young people from realizing the American dream,” said Lindsey, R-Coldwater. “The lack of new builds and skyrocketing prices for existing homes are forcing people to look elsewhere for opportunities.
“We can’t grow as a state if people can’t afford to live here.”
Senate Bill 985 would establish a two-year moratorium on local ordinances that place restrictions on residential property.
“This bill does not remove local ordinances or have a long-term impact on local rulemaking authority; it briefly pauses regulation and certain barriers to give Michigan a jumpstart on new developments and take action to address the significant shortage of family homes,” Lindsey said.
The two-year pause is not limited to new construction but would also provide homeowners with an opportunity to update their homes as well.
“During this period, every homeowner will be able to fix their deck, make updates to their home, or build a shed on their property without many of the hurdles typically involved on the local level,” Lindsey added.
SB 985 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Local Government.
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