Yes in God's Back Yard (YIGBY) Housing Act

This bill, titled the Yes in God's Back Yard (YIGBY) Housing Act, restricts local government regulations on affordable housing developments proposed by religious organizations in Minnesota. It defines "qualified development" as affordable housing built on land owned by a religious institution for at least one year and establishes a process where municipalities must temporarily suspend enforcement of zoning rules if a religious group claims they impose a substantial burden on religious exercise. Under the law, municipalities must review such claims within 30 days and adjust regulations if they fail to meet strict legal standards requiring a compelling governmental interest and the least restrictive means. The bill also allows religious institutions to sue for damages or other relief if their rights are violated, including reimbursement for legal fees.