What do the Gilmore Girls, Happy Days, and Full House have in common? ADUs.

A proposed Connecticut state law would allow accessory dwelling units across much of the state, report Thomas Broderick, Casey Camire, and Duncan Craig in CT Insider.

The authors argue that the state should embrace the humble, affordable housing type that was a mainstay in American cities — and pop culture — for decades before becoming illegal in many jurisdictions.

According to the article, ADUs are "as American as apple pie." Fonzie lived above the Cunninghams' garage; Full House's Uncle Jesse lived in Danny Tanner's attic. "Life is complex, and real families benefit from the flexibility offered by ADUs."

The authors offer evidence from Connecticut that shows why ADUs could be a helpful tool in reducing the housing burden on residents. For the authors, "accessory dwelling units are low-impact ways to make our communities more accessible and flexible, allowing downsizing seniors to remain near loved ones and homeowners to earn more money to pay for rising grocery, utility, and childcare costs."