IA HF2659

Creates an affordable housing task force to identify state and local regulatory barriers contributing to housing costs and examine whether public benefits of such regulations justify their impact on affordability

Requires the task force to study and make recommendations on zoning and land use regulations, state and local building codes, permitting and approval processes, and funding mechanisms affecting affordable housing development

Establishes a 17-member task force including the state building code commissioner, state fire marshal, Iowa Economic Development Authority director, three housing developers, elected city and county officials from varying population sizes, four legislators, and representatives from planning/zoning, housing nonprofit, lending, and economic development sectors

Members serve without compensation but receive expense reimbursement; task force membership must reflect geographic diversity across the state

Requires submission of a written report to the general assembly by December 1, 2026, with findings and recommendations including proposed statutory or administrative changes to reduce regulatory barriers while preserving public health and safety