An Act to Expand Coastal Workforce Housing in Maine’s Working Waterfront Communities

Be it enacted that municipalities in designated fishing and port communities may establish Coastal Workforce Housing Overlay Zones allowing, by right or through expedited local review, the development or conversion of year-round affordable homes, accessory dwelling units, and mixed-use housing above commercial space, and that the State shall provide matching grants, low-interest financing, and tax incentives for projects reserving units for year-round residents earning up to moderate incomes, with priority for fishermen, marine trades workers, teachers, health care staff, and other essential local employees; provided that participating developments shall maintain affordability and year-round occupancy requirements for a defined term, and the Maine State Housing Authority, in consultation with the Department of Marine Resources and municipalities, shall administer the program and issue annual reports on housing production, occupancy, and community impact.