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Bill

Bill

HB 313

RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Alcos and 10 co-sponsors

HB 313 enhances housing in Florida by streamlining tenant screening, promoting accessory dwelling units, and supporting affordable housing for military families.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 313

Summary of HB 313 - Housing

Bill Number: HB 313
Title: Housing
Status: Filed
Introduced: November 04, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Civil practice and procedure, relations, social welfare, veterans

Purpose and Intent

HB 313 aims to enhance housing accessibility and affordability in Florida by introducing measures that streamline tenant screening processes and promote the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The bill seeks to support both landlords and tenants while addressing housing needs, particularly for military families.

Key Provisions

1. Reusable Tenant Screening Reports

  • Definition: The bill establishes a framework for "reusable tenant screening reports," which are comprehensive reports that include an applicant's personal information, employment verification, eviction history, and creditworthiness.
  • Landlord Requirements: Landlords are authorized to accept these reports and are prohibited from charging applicants fees for accessing them or for application screening if a reusable report is provided.
  • Applicant Statement: Applicants must confirm that there have been no material changes to the information in the reusable report.

2. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

  • Local Government Mandate: The bill requires local governments to adopt ordinances allowing ADUs in specified areas by a set deadline, rather than merely permitting them.
  • Ordinance Restrictions: The ordinances must not include certain prohibitions or requirements that could hinder the development of ADUs.
  • Assessment and Taxation: Rented ADUs will be assessed separately from the primary homestead property and taxed based on their use, ensuring clarity in property taxation.

3. Density Bonus Incentives

  • Local governments are authorized to offer density bonuses to landowners who donate property for affordable housing aimed at military families, encouraging community support for housing initiatives.

4. Evaluation of Housing Solutions

  • The Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability is tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of mezzanine financing and the potential use of tiny homes for affordable housing solutions. A report on these findings is to be submitted to the Legislature by a specified date.

Impact

  • Tenants: The bill is expected to lower barriers for renters by reducing costs associated with tenant screening and promoting the availability of affordable housing options.
  • Landlords: By allowing the use of reusable tenant screening reports, landlords may benefit from a more efficient application process.
  • Local Governments: The mandate to adopt ADU ordinances may lead to increased housing density and availability in urban areas, addressing housing shortages.
  • Military Families: The incentives for property donations aim to directly support military families in need of affordable housing.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on November 4, 2025, and is currently in the legislative process. Further actions and discussions will determine its progression through the legislative body.

Conclusion

HB 313 represents a significant step towards improving housing accessibility in Florida, particularly for vulnerable populations such as military families. By facilitating tenant screening and promoting the development of accessory dwelling units, the bill aims to create a more inclusive housing market.

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

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