Relating to municipal regulation of multifamily and mixed-use development on religious land.

HB 3172 requires Texas municipalities to permit multifamily housing (three or more dwelling units) and mixed-use development (with at least 65% residential space) on land owned by or leased long-term (40+ years) to religious organizations. The bill defines "religious land" as property used by organizations open to the public and meeting specific legal criteria. Municipalities cannot demand special zoning changes, variances, or additional approvals for such developments, though the rule does not apply to land near heavy industry, airports, ports, or military bases. This bill directly affects religious organizations seeking to develop housing on their properties and limits local governments' ability to restrict such projects through zoning requirements.