Minority Leader Pugliese's Statement on New Law to Address Affordable Housing

(Denver, CO - May 31, 2024) - Minority Leader Pugliese emphasized the importance of SB24-174, signed into law yesterday, in addressing sustainable affordable housing in Colorado.

"This law is a crucial step in addressing Colorado's housing affordability crisis," said Minority Leader Pugliese.

SB24-174 calls for comprehensive housing needs assessments and master planning by state and local governments to boost residential housing availability. The Department of Local Affairs will provide technical assistance, grant funding, and collaborate on a joint water supply study, and publish a report on natural land and agricultural connectivity.

"By requiring detailed housing assessments and strategic planning, we can ensure sustainable growth and better living conditions for all residents," stated Pugliese.

Recent polling shows 63% of voters are pessimistic about Colorado's future as a place for homebuyers, with the state ranking second in the largest decrease in housing affordability since 2009. SB24-174 addresses these concerns through collaborative efforts between various levels of government.

“SB24-174 recognizes how unique our state is by leaving it to local governments in partnership with the state to determine what will most allow them to grow in a sustainable way,” Pugliese emphasized. “It ensures stakeholders are engaged and housing projects respect community character.”

"With this law, we are taking a thoughtful approach to affordable housing," said Minority Leader Pugliese. "We are committed to creating sustainable, affordable housing opportunities for all Coloradans."