2026 Policy Agenda

Arkansas faces a growing gap between housing supply and demand, driven in significant part by regulatory constraints that make it costly and difficult to build new homes. AFP Arkansas supports a comprehensive set of reforms to expand supply and drive down costs. Permitting Accessory Dwelling Units — including backyard cottages, basement apartments, and garage conversions — allows homeowners to add housing at lower cost while generating additional income. Capping minimum lot size requirements for starter homes removes one of the primary regulatory barriers to entry-level construction. Broader zoning reform to reduce unnecessary permitting red tape, combined with land bank expansion to return dormant and tax-delinquent properties to productive use, would further increase housing availability and make homeownership attainable for more Arkansas families.