The House of Representatives has approved the Housing for the 21st Century Act in a decisive 390-9 vote, marking a significant bipartisan effort to address the nation’s housing shortage. The legislation aims to reduce regulatory barriers, modernize federal housing programs, and expand housing supply. It now moves to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain despite strong support in the House.
The bill was introduced by House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill and Ranking Member Maxine Waters, reflecting rare bipartisan cooperation. Lawmakers described the measure as a targeted response to rising housing costs and limited availability affecting households across the country. The proposal previously passed through committee with broad backing before gaining near-unanimous approval on the House floor.
Key provisions include directing the Government Accountability Office to review inefficiencies in federal housing programs, updating the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and reducing regulatory obstacles that have slowed housing development. The bill also allows banks more flexibility to invest in expanding housing supply.
Supporters argue that complex regulations, permitting delays, and compliance costs have worsened housing shortages and driven up prices. They believe supply-side reforms can help stabilize costs over time without increasing federal spending.
House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the need to address affordability, linking rising housing costs to economic conditions and regulatory burdens.
With strong bipartisan backing, the legislation signals growing agreement that housing affordability is a national priority, even as debates over long-term solutions continue.
