A controversial bill introduced in the Colorado legislature aims to tackle the state’s housing shortage by prohibiting cities from implementing limits on how many people can live together.
House Bill 24-1007, one of many bills being considered, has sparked criticism as it disregards the potential negative consequences of overcrowding and undermines property rights.
The proposed bill would ban occupancy limits based on factors such as familial status and relationship, only allowing restrictions tied to a dwelling’s square footage if necessary for health and safety. Proponents argue that the legislation is necessary to address the rising costs of housing and to provide more affordable options for individuals and families.
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Representative Manny Rutinel, an Adams County Democrat, claims that arbitrary and outdated laws in certain municipalities prevent people from living with roommates or distant family members, limiting their housing choices. He believes the bill will promote inclusivity and increase the availability of affordable housing options.
Rutinel is leading the bill alongside Democrats Representative Javier Mabrey of Denver, Senator Julie Gonzales of Denver, and Senator Tony Exum of Colorado Springs. The legislation faces its first hurdle on January 30th with the House Transportation, Housing, and Local Government Committee.
The bill was introduced on the first day of the legislative session and received support from Governor Jared Polis, who highlighted the importance of ending discriminatory occupancy limits in his State of the State address. Polis described it as an “important housing and civil rights issue” and emphasized the need to create more equity in housing.
The elimination of occupancy limits was previously included in a major land use reform bill backed by Polis but ultimately failed to pass. Democrats plan to reintroduce components of that bill individually this session, with HB-1007 being the first.
According to Rutinel, around two dozen Colorado municipalities currently have occupancy limits in place. Cities like Fort Collins, Commerce City, and Littleton enforce what is commonly known as a “U plus 2” law, restricting occupancy to no more than three unrelated individuals.
This means that even in larger homes with multiple bedrooms, only three unrelated people would be allowed to live together.
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While the bill has garnered support from organizations such as the Community Economic Defense Project, Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, and New Era Colorado, concerns have been raised about its potential impact. The city of Fort Collins has already indicated its intent to amend the bill, and various groups representing local governments are closely monitoring its progress.
Critics argue that the bill overlooks the negative consequences of overcrowding, including strains on infrastructure, increased noise levels, parking issues, and potential safety hazards.
Moreover, this legislation infringes upon property rights by dictating how many people can reside in a dwelling, disregarding the choices and preferences of property owners.