State Rep. Carol Moss is pushing for a dedicated portion of liquor sales profits to fund the Olene Walker Housing Loan Fund, which has helped build nearly 25,000 units for people with low incomes since 1995. The proposed bill, HB286, would divert 25% of liquor sales profits to provide consistent funding for affordable housing initiatives. Advocates and nonprofits have expressed support for the bill, emphasizing the critical need for affordable housing in Utah.
Although some lawmakers have raised concerns about prioritizing funding for the housing fund over other state needs, advocates argue that the dedicated revenue is crucial for addressing the housing crisis. The fund has not seen an increase in appropriations since its inception, leading to frequent shortages and challenges in meeting demand for affordable housing.
Rep. Moss’s bill is currently under consideration by the House Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee, with discussions ongoing about the financial impact and potential benefits of supporting affordable housing initiatives through dedicated funding. Sen. Lincoln Fillmore has also proposed legislation to combine the Olene Walker Housing Loan Fund with the state’s tax-exempt bonding authority, further emphasizing the importance of addressing the housing crisis in Utah.
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