Louisiana Senate OKs Effort to Promote Affordable Housing and Property Rights

LOUISIANA REALTORS • April 9, 2018
Louisiana senators approved Monday night legislation that would assert state authority over local zoning efforts to create affordable housing. Currently, Louisiana allows municipalities and parishes to pass inclusionary zoning ordinances to promote the development of affordable housing. Inclusionary zoning requires housing developers to sell or rent a proportion of their units below market rate, regardless of the economics of a project or whether the developer receives just compensation. 

Senate Bill 462 would instead allow municipalities and parishes to offer VOLUNTARY economic incentive policies to promote the development of affordable housing.The measure was approved on a vote of 26-11. SB462 would replace the term “inclusionary zoning” with “voluntary economic incentive policies,” which will allow parishes and municipalities to incentivize affordable housing opportunities by limiting regulatory burdens on the housing industry.

State Sen. Danny Martiny, the Metairie Republican who sponsored the measure, pointed out that a similar bill was approved last year by the state Senate, then was sidelined in the House on promises that the New Orleans City Council would address the issue.

Louisiana REALTORS has been working with homebuilders, developers, and other entities to follow this issue. Members were alerted with a Call for Action over the past couple of weeks and over 700+ responded by contacting their senators. The legislation now heads to the Louisiana House for consideration and we encourage members to stay engaged on this issue. 
Portions of this post were taken from an article originally published in the Advocate -
by Mark Ballard on April 9, 2018
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Get ready to press pause on your daily routine and join House Call Home Inspection for an unforgettable blend of education, networking and relaxation aboard the 2026 CE Cruise to Mexico. Departing from the Port of New Orleans aboard Carnival Valor, this annual House Call Cruise sets sail October 17–22, 2026, with ports of call in Cozumel and Progreso. Attendees can enjoy engaging continuing education opportunities, exclusive group activities, and all the dining, entertainment, and onboard experiences Carnival is known for — all while cruising to exciting destinations. While the official 2026 agenda will be released closer to departure, past cruises give a great preview of what attendees can expect. Sample activities and classes from a previous cruise included multiple CE class options, themed cocktail parties, costume night, group photos, a scavenger hunt, and elegant night festivities. Previous educational offerings featured courses such as Seller Ready, New Construction, and Home Inspection, taught by industry professionals — all conveniently hosted onboard, allowing attendees to earn CE credits without sacrificing the vacation experience. Cabin options are available in interior, oceanview and balcony categories, with pricing subject to change. Space is limited, and this popular cruise fills quickly each year. Booking & Travel Information To reserve your spot or ask questions about accommodations and pricing, contact the group travel agent: Chad Fleming Cruise Planners, Independent Franchise (337) 401-2033 chad.fleming@cruiseplanners.com www.timetogeauxtravel.com Please note that this CE cruise is not hosted by or affiliated with Louisiana REALTORS®. 
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