U.S. House overwhelmingly passes affordable housing bill; sends to Trump for enacting into law

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 396-13, marking a significant step toward addressing housing affordability and accessibility in the United States. The legislation, led by House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill (R-AR) and Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA), amends the Senate-passed version to address concerns from members and market participants, offering a more balanced approach. Key provisions include streamlining housing development, encouraging new construction, updating HUD programs, and reducing regulatory barriers.

The bill restores critical community banking provisions while aiming to increase the housing supply and reduce costs for American families. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) described the bill as “transformational,” emphasizing its potential to bring the American Dream within reach for millions of families. House Republicans highlighted the legislation’s focus on cutting red tape and lowering costs, with language from the Modular Housing Production Act included to expand access to affordable, factory-built housing.

Ranking Member Waters emphasized the bill’s role in addressing the affordable housing and homelessness crises, calling for swift Senate action. The House has now sent the bill to the Senate for consideration, with proponents urging expeditious passage to deliver relief to American families. If enacted, the legislation could reshape housing policy and influence market dynamics in the coming years.