SB 6302 prohibits cities from regulating or limiting the number of unrelated persons who may occupy a household or dwelling unit, beyond any restrictions on occupant load of the structure under the building code.

The stated goal of the proposal, sponsored by Sen. Christine Rolfes (D–Bainbridge Island), is to eliminate enforcement of these provisions as one means to address the housing crisis and prevent discrimination against nontraditional households.

We have heard that some cities use these ordinances to prevent unregulated boarding homes, but we have also heard that the ordinances are very difficult to enforce and may raise constitutional questions.

We would appreciate your perspective on whether this is a problematic bill or not.

Dates to remember

SB 6302 is scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Housing Stability & Affordability Committee at 1:30 pm on Monday, January 20.