A new bill that allows faith-based organizations to build multifamily housing on their land is making its way through the Massachusetts legislature.

The state’s House of Representatives passed the provision on July 8 as part of the broader Bill H.5562.

Known as Yes in God’s Backyard, or YIGBY, the legislation will help create new housing and bring currently tax-exempt properties onto municipal tax rolls. A certain percentage of the units developed must be income-restricted. Several states have already considered or passed versions of YIGBY, including California.

Advocates of the provision voiced continued support in light of its passing.

“Churches, synagogues, parishes, mosques and other faith-based organizations are eager to be part of the solution to our state’s housing crisis,” said Cindy Rowe, president and CEO of the Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action in a press release. “We see the urgent need for more affordable housing in our communities, and we want to meet that need by repurposing our land to build more housing that is affordable to people of all income levels. Passing YIGBY will make it possible, while generating millions of dollars in local tax revenue to support priorities like schools, libraries, police and fire staffing, and road maintenance.”

“Across Massachusetts, people are feeling the housing shortage every day — whether it’s a young family struggling to buy their first home, a senior looking to downsize or workers facing longer commutes because they can’t afford to live near their jobs,” said Eric Shupin, CEO of Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA). “Making it easier to create new homes where infrastructure already exists can help expand opportunities across our state.”

Before the measure becomes law, YIGBY requires approval from the Massachusetts Senate.