Utah legislators reject ‘preemption,’ stop two housing bills intended to permit smaller homes

Utah lawmakers are struggling to tackle the state's housing affordability crisis, as recent bills promoting smaller housing types have stalled. HB88 and HB90, which proposed mandatory accessory dwelling units and smaller lot sizes, faced local government resistance over control issues. Lawmakers prefer incremental changes and partnerships with local leaders. Critics fear these mandates could disrupt local planning, while supporters argue they're essential for boosting housing supply and affordability.