Great Lakes Wire

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) recently signed a bill package to create more affordable housing units throughout Michigan.

Senate Bill 364, sponsored by Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield), and Sen. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) facilitates the construction and renovation of residential housing and grows enticements for neighborhood enterprise zones, according to a Dec. 13 press release from the governor’s office. The bill also provides tax exemptions to some renovation projects.

“We urgently need more housing options in Michigan,” Moss said in the release. “Our bipartisan legislation helps homeowners to make affordable upgrades to their existing homes and assists communities to construct new housing at attainable price points. We are thankful the governor signed these bills into law so we can retain our valued residents and attract job seekers to Michigan.”

Whitmer said that investing in affordable housing will make the state a more desirable place to live and help the economy.

“Investments in affordable housing lower costs for families and make Michigan communities more attractive, easier places to live,” Whitmer said. “They attract job seekers, spur economic activity, and make it easier to raise a family. I am proud to sign bipartisan bills to expand affordable housing in Michigan and make our state a place where anyone can afford to live, work, and raise a family. I am committed to growing Michigan’s economy, creating good-paying jobs, and building a brighter future for all Michiganders.”

Senate Bill 422, sponsored by Sen. Ken Horn (R-Frankenmuth), establishes a state housing development authority, funds to support housing projects, land acquisition and planning, rehabilitation, and more, according to the release.