Pro Tem Zoo (Zolnikov) sponsored House Bill 492 and framed it as a tool to reduce housing costs by removing arbitrary local parking mandates. He told the chamber the bill “does not ban parking in any way whatsoever” and that the measure sets only a floor so property owners or developers can provide more — not less — parking if needed. The bill delays effect until Oct. 1, 2026, to allow local governments transition time.

Opponents argued the bill is a one‑size‑fits‑all solution that undermines local zoning and neighborhood decision‑making. Representative Strand warned that developers could avoid building any off‑street parking for units under 1,200 square feet and shift parking burdens onto neighbors and local governments. Representative Thane said the state recently compelled local governments to review growth plans and that the bill risks usurping local decisions. Several members described real parking problems in historic neighborhoods and near universities and asked the sponsor whether parking districts and other local tools would be affected.

Supporters, including Representative Marler, Representative Howell and others, said reducing parking minimums can enable denser, more affordable housing and noted studies and task‑force recommendations supporting reform. After a lengthy floor debate and a closure motion, the committee recommended the bill do pass on second reading, with the clerk reporting 64 ayes and 36 noes.