Rep. Mike Flood U.S. Representative for Nebraska's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Rep. Mike Flood U.S. Representative for Nebraska's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Representatives Mike Flood and Brittany Pettersen have introduced the Housing Supply Frameworks Act aimed at addressing the nationwide housing shortage. This legislation instructs the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to create best practice frameworks for zoning and land-use policies. It is designed to aid local and state governments in overcoming barriers to housing development and construction.
The proposed HUD frameworks would serve as a guide for states and localities considering reforming their zoning and land-use policies. The legislation aims to support jurisdictions in reforming regulations to encourage more housing development, especially in communities experiencing housing shortages.
Highlighting a shortage of 4 to 7 million homes across the country, the act seeks to assist local and state governments in increasing their housing supplies. "The rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach," stated Rep. Flood, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle the housing crisis.
Rep. Pettersen noted the urgency felt in states like Colorado, "We need to build up the supply of housing to bring down costs for renters and homebuyers."
In the Senate, Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester, Mike Crapo, John Fetterman, and Thom Tillis introduced similar legislation. Sen. Blunt Rochester remarked on the widespread impact of the housing crisis and supported measures to reduce regulatory barriers. Sen. Crapo highlighted the empowerment of local municipalities without a federal mandate. Sen. Fetterman and Sen. Tillis also expressed support for aiding states and localities in modernizing zoning policies to increase housing availability.
The legislation has received endorsements from over 140 housing advocacy organizations. Support comes from various groups such as the American Planning Association, Habitat For Humanity International, and the National Apartment Association.
Sue Schwartz of the American Planning Association called the bill a "targeted, high-impact tool" addressing housing challenges, while Michele Stockwell from BPC Action noted its role in breaking down barriers to building affordable housing.
The bipartisan initiative signifies a notable federal effort to encourage regulatory reforms at state and local levels aimed at expanding the housing supply to meet the growing demand.
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