HI HB1277

Establishes a new office of the housing advocate within the office of the governor, administratively placed but separately funded by the general fund.

Housing advocate appointed by the governor for a four-year term concurrent with the governor's term, without requiring senate confirmation.

Housing advocate shall identify promising special/functional needs, affordable, and market housing projects in each county; facilitate projects through state departments; identify state and local regulatory barriers to housing development; and recommend policy changes to remove housing development barriers.

One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) position within the office of the governor is transferred to the office of the housing advocate to establish the housing advocate position.

Act takes effect July 1, 2021.