2023 regular session

Introduced

House Bill 2965

By Delegates Walker, Young, and Hansen

[Introduced January 24, 2023; Referred to the Committee on Political Subdivisions then Finance]

A BILL to amend the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, by adding thereto a new article, designated §16-15A-1, §16-15A-2, and §16-15A-3, all relating to the creation of the Tiny Home Pilot Program.

Be it enacted by the Legislature of West Virginia:

ARTICLE 15A. Tiny home pilot program.

§16-15A-1. Legislative findings.

The Legislature finds that an initiative aimed at diversifying the state's housing stock and boosting affordability is of paramount importance for those who are in a halfway home, a senior living home, or adults who age out of the foster care system. In an overheated housing market, there is appeal to building smaller, "tiny" homes because it is cheaper and affordable for those who are seeking housing. The creation of these tiny home communities through means of a pilot program would benefit seniors, veterans, foster care adults, and low-income residents who have previously had trouble finding stable housing.

§16-15A-2. Establishment of program; funding.

(a) There is hereby established a Tiny Home Pilot Program. Funding for the program shall be allocated from the General Revenue fund of the Legislature.

(b) The program shall consist of 15 tiny homes per community and shall be constructed in four communities at the outset of the program – Charleston, Huntington, Wheeling, and Morgantown – with the ability for the program to be expanded, should the program show success in these areas.

(c) Applicants for the pilot program shall show a need, and be in at-risk category, such as those in a halfway home, a senior living home, or adults who age out of the foster care system. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources shall be responsible for reviewing applications.

§16-15A-3. Effective date.

This article shall become effective July 1, 2023.

NOTE: The purpose of this bill is to establish the Tiny Home Pilot Program.

Strike-throughs indicate language that would be stricken from a heading or the present law and underscoring indicates new language that would be added.