NEW:
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Legislative leaders have sidelined a proposed ban on adopting local housing design standards in Indiana cities and counties. The move comes after ethics experts questioned whether Republican Rep. Doug Miller of Elkhart should take the lead in pushing the bill, given that he owns a homebuilding company and represents Indiana in the National Association of Homebuilders. Miller has said his proposal aims to increase affordable housing options and restrain local government overreach. Republican House Speaker Todd Huston said Thursday that the proposal doesn't have enough support among GOP lawmakers.
ORIGINAL POST:
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A proposed ban on Indiana cities and counties adopting local housing design standards is being pushed by a state lawmaker who owns a homebuilding company. Ethics experts tell The Indianapolis Star that Republican Rep. Doug Miller’s involvement in the legislation is inappropriate because of his ownership of the Elkhart-based company and his role on the board of directors for the National Association of Homebuilders. Miller says the bill he’s sponsoring is aimed at increasing affordable housing options and restraining local government overreach. Republican House Speaker Todd Huston says the Legislature is a part-time job and that Miller is bringing his expertise to the issue.