CT SB00985

Redefines "member municipality" to remove population requirements and tier restrictions, allowing any municipality (except Hartford and capital region municipalities) to join the Connecticut Municipal Redevelopment Authority.

Creates "housing growth zones" where municipalities must adopt zoning regulations that permit middle housing as-of-right and streamline approval processes through the zoning board of appeals, with decisions required within 30 days.

Requires municipalities to report annually by March 31 to the Department of Economic and Community Development on new dwelling units permitted and demolished, with data retroactive to 2018; municipalities failing to comply after 60 days lose discretionary state funding eligibility.

Prohibits member municipalities from requesting authority development project funds or bonds until they enact all proposed zoning regulations approved by the authority for their housing growth zone.

Directs the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management to conduct a study by January 1, 2024, identifying state-owned property surplus to needs and suitable for housing development, particularly transit-oriented and affordable housing.