OLYMPIA – The first House bill signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson makes major strides in addressing Washington’s housing crisis.  

HB 1687, sponsored by Rep. Julia Reed (D-Seattle), authorizes the state or a local government to work with a social housing public development authority in the planning, construction, or operation of housing projects under the Housing Cooperation Law.  

“This is a common-sense way to get more affordable housing in areas of need across the state, and especially in Seattle and the 36th district” said Rep. Reed. “With our current budget difficulties, it is essential that we continue to identify zero-cost ways to increase people becoming stable in their living situation.”  

HB 1687 goes into effect 90 days after the legislative session.