State-by-State Analysis Each state is taking a unique approach to boosting housing production, and though there are some common trends among the legislation being passed, it’s important to look at each state’s policies and understand the implications for development. The Good Florida The U.S. Census Bureau’s estimates found Florida to be the fastest-growing state in the country, with the population increasing 1.9% to 22,244,823 between 2021 and 2022. In order to house its rapidly growing population, the state legislature is taking dramatic measures to jumpstart housing production. Florida’s Live Local Act., which went into effect July 1st of 2023, funds affordable housing programs in the state and closes a loophole used by lawmakers to siphon money slated for affordable housing. The main point of the legislation is to enforce something called the 40% rule, where if at least 40% of proposed units are set aside as affordable or workforce housing, local officials must approve the plans on any site zoned for commercial, industrial, and mixed-use without public hearings, a rezoning process, or land use change requirements. 06