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DENVER, CO - The House Transportation, Housing & Local Government Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Representative Javier Mabrey that would streamline the process for religious and educational institutions to build housing on their land to create more housing opportunities that work for every budget. HB25-1169 passed by a vote of 8-4.
“Creating more housing that hardworking Coloradans can afford is one of our biggest priorities at the Capitol, and cutting red tape for places of worship and schools to build affordable housing and community services like child care centers will save Coloradans money on housing,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “My previous experience as a pastor gives me a unique perspective on this issue, and working closely with religious groups and schools has confirmed the need for legislation that allows them to more easily develop on their land and partner with mission-minded organizations to help reduce the cost of housing across Colorado. This bill is a win-win for our communities by increasing affordable housing options and saving Coloradans money on housing, child care, and other necessary services.”
“The housing crisis is making it increasingly difficult for hardworking Coloradans to put a roof over their heads, which is why we’re bringing this bill to expand housing opportunities on underutilized land already owned by religious and educational institutions,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “This legislation would streamline the review process to build new housing on this land, allowing places of worship and schools to help support their communities by building more affordable housing that will help bring down the cost of living. The housing affordability crisis requires multiple solutions, and this bill is one piece that can create a more affordable Colorado for all.”
Beginning December 31, 2026, HB25-1169 would streamline the process for faith-based organizations, school districts, and state colleges or universities to build housing and other community services on their land, regardless of current zoning laws.
Under the bill, local governments could not reject the construction of a residential development due to height, as long as the development is no taller than three stories or 45 feet or adheres to the height standards of the zoning district. Additionally, local governments could not restrict the construction based on the number of units, with some exceptions. If zoning allows, these residential developments could also include childcare centers and facilities that provide recreational, social, or educational services to residents.
HB25-1169 would greenlight over 5,000 acres of land to be developed into housing in Denver, Jefferson, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties alone.
California passed a law in 2023 that makes it easier for higher education and religious institutions to build housing on their land, opening up over 170,000 acres of land to be developed into affordable housing or other uses. A church in Washington DC built 99 units for low-income families in addition to amenities like office space, a gym, and a culinary arts training program. An Atlanta church plans to build 300 affordable housing units, two schools, and 10,000 square feet of new retail space on their property.
A recent Denver Post article reported that average Denver rents fell 1.5 percent from the end of 2023 to the end of 2024 due to new housing units doubling the typical pace in recent years.