On March 5, the House Committee on Municipal Government and Housing debated several housing-related bills, including a revised version of the 8 Law, a proposal requiring buildings up to four stories to have only one staircase, and parking maximums. The 8 Law, which sets fixed tax rates for affordable housing, commercial-to-residential conversions, and new construction, received broad support, though some lawmakers raised concerns about the affordability thresholds, especially for adaptive reuse projects. The law aims to provide developers with financing certainty by fixing tax rates at 8% of prior year rental income for the first 15 years, increasing gradually thereafter. Mayor Brett Smiley endorsed the bill, emphasizing its role in clarifying affordability standards.

The single-staircase bill sparked division; housing advocates praised its potential to reduce construction costs and increase housing supply, while fire officials voiced safety concerns. The Homeless Bill of Rights also gained backing, with advocates requesting longer notification periods before clearing encampments and clearer definitions of exceptions related to environmental and health hazards. Other measures, such as parking maximums, emergency housing permits, and land subdivision for infill housing, were generally supported. These discussions are part of a broader 2026 housing package announced by House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi aimed at addressing housing affordability and development challenges.