SE Nebraska News

U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (R-NE) and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO) have introduced the "Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act." The legislation aims to address housing affordability by examining local zoning and development policies.

"Housing affordability is a major concern for communities nationwide. As Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, I have remained focused on commonsense, consensus-building efforts to find meaningful solutions to America’s housing crisis. This bipartisan bill helps accomplish that goal by shedding light on onerous local zoning and development policies so we can build more housing," said Congressman Flood.

Congresswoman Pettersen emphasized the urgency of the issue in Colorado: "People across Colorado know all too well how drastic the housing crisis is in our country. We simply cannot keep up with the demand for affordable housing for our workers, seniors, or low and middle-income families," she stated. She added her support for bipartisan collaboration to tackle these challenges.

The proposed bill encourages communities to streamline regulations and promotes transparency in neighborhood planning. It also highlights the Community Development Block Grant program's role in expanding housing supply.

Support from various organizations has been expressed through a letter addressed to Representatives Flood and Pettersen as well as Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Brian Schatz (D-HI).

A wide range of national organizations supports this initiative, including Habitat For Humanity International, Inc., National Alliance to End Homelessness, National Apartment Association, National Association of Home Builders, Smart Growth America, UnidosUS, among others.

State and local support comes from numerous groups such as Abundant Housing Atlanta, California YIMBY, Chicagoland Apartment Association, DC YIMBYS, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Indianapolis, Los Angeles YIMBY, New York State Association For Affordable Housing Inc., Seattle YIMBY.

Congressman Flood serves as Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee as well as Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus.