The 2024 Oklahoma Legislature is back in action.  There are a few bills that may be of immediate interest to our members.  We will have a more detailed tracking list out soon for our membership.  Please make sure to let us know if there are any legislative issues that are of importance to your business.

PRIORITY BILLS:

HB3499-West – This bill will require property owners to review the criminal history of potential renters and outline the factors to determine if the applicant is suitable.  This bill will require OHFA to collect data from property owner and to provide annual statistics.  Requires all LIHTC properties to have a defined criminal history screening policy related to felony convictions and housing of felons can only be denied if an individualized review shows that the safety of residents and the property are at risk.  At Issue:  Coalition members have expressed some concern related to an unfunded administration burden and the subjective nature of the bill leading to potential inconsistent application and Fair Housing issues. Current Status: This bill has passed the A&B Revenue & Taxation Subcommittee.  This may move on to full committee next week.   

If this bill affects your business, you may want to take action soon. 

HB4018-McBride – This bill is an industry request to allow any unused State LIHTC credits related to the Oklahoma Affordable Housing Act to be rolled over to the next year or any returned State LIHTC credits to be reallocated. Current Status:  This bill has been referred to the A&B Finance-Revenue & Taxation Subcommittee and will be heard on Monday, February 26, 2023 at 10:30am in Room 206. 

BILLS OF INTEREST:

HB3956-Blancett – This bill will establish the Oklahoma Affordable Housing Commission to address housing needs for various income levels. The bill defines income brackets, appointees and outlines responsibilities.  Creates a revolving fund to support housing initiatives.  Current Status:  Referred to A&B Select Agencies Subcommittee. 

SB1755-Haste – This bill creates an affordable housing taskforce to study the current and future policy needs of the state to address affordable housing.  Current Status: Not yet assigned to committee.