Politicians in Olympia talk a lot about the need for affordable housing in our state. But did you know that the very laws and regulations they pass may be part of the problem?

Friends, Politicians in Olympia talk a lot about the need for affordable housing in our state. But did you know that the very laws and regulations they pass may be part of the problem? Public policy, including state laws, permitting rules, and building restrictions, is adding an average of $144,000 to the cost of constructing a median-priced home in Washington. Until 1990, local communities had the flexibility to manage their own zoning and permitting based on regional needs. But with the passage of the Growth Management Act (GMA) that year, much of this local control was taken away, and state-imposed mandates began pushing housing prices up. As a result, housing is more expensive than ever—whether you’re buying or renting. Do you think it’s time to rethink these regulations? Or should the state continue making these decisions? Take a quick poll: ⚪ YES: Cut the red tape and lower housing costs. ⚪ NO: The state should make these decisions. Your input can make a difference! Click here to vote and help shape Washington’s future housing policies. Best regards, Washington Policy Center