A bill that would allow religious institutions to build small-scale affordable housing is moving forward in the Kentucky House.

House Bill 333 advanced unanimously Tuesday from the House Local Government Committee. The bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Republican Representative Michael “Sarge” Pollock of Campbellsville.

Pollock says the idea grew out of conversations with the Sisters of Loretto, a Catholic women’s organization looking to renovate an unused building into short-term housing.

Under the bill, faith-based organizations could build up to 24 affordable housing units on property they own or on adjacent land within a half mile. The housing would be required to remain affordable for at least 15 years.

The measure also expands the ability of religious institutions to operate modest-sized homeless shelters, including warming and cooling centers, in certain industrial zones, as long as health and safety rules are followed.

Pollock says the legislation addresses a real need, noting that faith communities are eager to help combat homelessness across Kentucky.

House Bill 333 now heads to the full House for consideration.