Texas Senate passes bill for smaller homes, lower costs

The Texas State Senate has passed a new bill aimed at making housing more affordable. The legislation, known as Senate Bill 15, allows homebuilders to construct smaller homes on smaller lots. This change is designed to reduce housing costs in the state. Senate Bill 15 removes city requirements for minimum lot sizes larger than 1,400 square feet in new neighborhoods. Lawmakers hope that giving homeowners more flexibility will help address the housing shortage in Texas. The state has seen a significant increase in home prices and rents, largely due to an influx of new residents during the pandemic. Texas is estimated to need about 320,000 additional homes to meet demand. Even though construction has increased, many still find it hard to purchase homes or maintain affordable living. The bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Paul Bettencourt, aims to boost housing supply and reduce restrictions from local governments. The bill was approved by the Senate with a vote of 28 to 3. It limits local governments in populous areas from enforcing certain zoning laws, allowing developers to create more homes. The legislation focuses on cities with populations exceeding 150,000 and aims to support the creation of starter homes and townhomes. Texas officials emphasize the urgency of the housing crisis, with rising costs threatening the state's reputation for affordability. The bill will now be considered by the Texas House of Representatives before it can be signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.