Microsoft is advocating for a bill that would ease housing development restrictions on commercial land in Washington state, with the first hearing taking place today. The proposed legislation, known as SB 6026, aims to change the default zoning requirement, mandating cities with populations over 30,000 to permit housing in designated areas, thus eliminating the need for developers to seek special permissions.
The tech company has invested over $750 million in affordable housing initiatives, which are projected to create or preserve more than 16,000 affordable homes in King County and surrounding areas. Microsoft's recent report emphasizes that the housing crisis in Washington is a systemic issue that requires comprehensive solutions rather than isolated fixes.
Jane Broom, senior director of Microsoft Philanthropies, acknowledged the complexity of the housing problem, noting that shortcomings in one area can adversely affect others. She highlighted the growing concern over housing affordability among Washington voters, which poses challenges for the state's workforce retention and attraction.