Western Governors: Bipartisan Fixes Exist for Affordable Housing Crisis

At midnight on July 10, the most substantial federal housing legislation in over three decades became law, achieving bipartisan support—a timely development for millions struggling to find affordable housing. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, approved by Congress, aims to make homes more affordable, though it won't magically reduce prices.

Drawing from the leadership of western governors on the frontlines of the housing crisis, the law employs various strategies to alleviate the shortage. It simplifies the building process, rewarding communities that adopt pre-approved designs and streamlining reviews, reducing the need for repeated permits. The bill extends the federal government's largest affordable-housing block grant, benefiting over a million homes over thirty years, and offers low-interest mortgages under $100,000 to families, crucial in rural areas where financing is scarce.

Groundbreaking reforms, initiated in the West under the Western Governors Association's initiative "BRAND West," include eliminating a federal rule requiring manufactured homes on permanent steel chassis, cutting costs by $5,000 to $10,000. Another amendment ensures rural families retain rental assistance post-loan payoff. Furthermore, the bill streamlines environmental reviews for housing in developed neighborhoods, aiding construction efforts.

Utah and New Mexico have implemented innovative housing solutions, such as a loan program for affordable starter homes and a statewide housing office. Despite the Housing Act's progress, more needs to be done, including funding predevelopment work, addressing tribal housing gaps, and increasing trade worker investments. The article underscores the potential of bipartisan housing policy and encourages state and local governments to leverage the new legislation to create more homes for Americans.