HB2536 – Changes the definition governing the patterns of land use and development in the rural element of counties’ comprehensive planning.
Prime Sponsor – Representative Maycumber (R; 7th District; Northeast counties)
Current status – Scheduled for a hearing in the House Committee on Energy and Environment February 4th at 3:30.
Next step would be – Action by the committee.
Legislative tracking page for the bill.

Summary –
Under the bill, the definition of “rural character” that governs the patterns of land use and development for the rural element in counties’ comprehensive plans in the Growth Management Act would be amended. The new version would be:

“Rural character” refers to the patterns of land use and development established by a county in the rural element of its comprehensive plan that must provide opportunities to support natural growth of families in the communities to prevent out-migration of people that were born in those communities. Rural character refers to patterns of land use and development that prevent high density development throughout the landscape. Land uses are adaptable with the use of land by wildlife and for fish and wildlife habitat, farming and farm-related industries, natural resource usage and manufacturing, and tourism. Rural character includes but is not limited to access to cell phone, broadband, and wireless technology; health care and wellness services for humans and animals; a variety of services and opportunities for children; markets, restaurants, and food services; industries to support agricultural tourism and outdoor recreation; and home-based economic opportunities that diversify rural economies.