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Bill

HB 1279

Affordable housing; religious organizations and other nonprofit tax-exempt properties.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Cole and 10 co-sponsors

Virginia bill permits religious organizations and nonprofits to develop affordable housing on tax-exempt properties without losing exemption status, addressing housing shortage.

Governor's recommendation received by House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1279

Legislative bill overview

HB 1279 allows religious organizations and other tax-exempt nonprofit properties in Virginia to be used for affordable housing development while maintaining their tax-exempt status. The bill modifies existing property tax exemption criteria to explicitly permit these organizations to develop, own, or operate affordable housing units on their properties without losing tax benefits.

Why is this important

Virginia faces a significant affordable housing shortage, and this bill unlocks a potential resource by enabling nonprofits and religious institutions—which collectively own substantial real estate—to contribute to housing solutions. The measure could accelerate affordable housing production by removing a regulatory barrier that previously made such projects financially unfeasible for these organizations.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax revenue loss: Municipalities may experience reduced property tax collections if more nonprofit properties are developed for housing, potentially shifting costs to other taxpayers
  • Definitional concerns: The bill's specific criteria for what constitutes "affordable" housing and which nonprofits qualify could create implementation disputes or be perceived as too restrictive or too permissive
  • Community impact: Neighborhood groups may worry about density, parking, or demographic changes from new housing developments on previously underdeveloped nonprofit properties

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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