SE Nebraska News

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, a Republican from Nebraska, alongside Congresswoman Nikema Williams, a Democrat from Georgia, has introduced the Whole-Home Repairs Act. This proposed legislation aims to establish a pilot program managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide resources for low- and moderate-income homeowners and certain small landlords whose properties require significant repairs.

"America is in the midst of a housing crisis, and we need an all-of-the-above approach to address it," stated Congressman Flood. "This bill takes existing resources and puts them to work to improve the quality of rundown housing units." He also noted that this initiative would assist working families facing rising maintenance costs due to inflation. Flood expressed gratitude towards Congresswoman Williams for her collaboration on this effort in the House and Senators Fetterman and Lummis for their support in the Senate.

Congresswoman Williams highlighted the challenges faced by many families due to increasing home maintenance expenses. "For too many families, rising home maintenance costs are forcing difficult choices—leaving many to live with dangerous health and safety risks," she said. She emphasized that the Whole-Home Repairs Act would aid homeowners in making essential repairs, ensuring homes remain safe investments for future generations.

In 2018, it was estimated that $126.9 billion worth of repairs were needed for substandard housing across various income levels. The condition of these homes often worsens over time, potentially leading them to become dilapidated or abandoned.

Charles Wesche, CEO of NeighborWorks Lincoln, remarked on the importance of this act: "The Whole-Home Repair Act is a critical step toward ensuring that every person has access to a safe and stable home." He noted that maintaining homes not only benefits individuals but also strengthens communities by boosting property values and promoting long-term sustainability.

The bill proposes creating a pilot program under HUD's guidance, offering grants to states, localities or qualified non-profits for implementing whole-home repair initiatives. It authorizes $25 million in funding sourced from HUD's Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Housing—a department with surplus funds exceeding $700 million as early as 2024.

The legislation has garnered support from organizations such as Atlanta Neighborhood Development Partnership, Inc., NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska, and NeighborWorks Lincoln. In the Senate, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) and Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) lead its counterpart bill.

More details about the Senate version can be accessed through available channels.