Congressman Davis Votes for Housing Package Benefiting Rural Communities and Working Families

WASHINGTON, D.C. -Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) released the following statement following the final passage of H.R. 6644, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a bipartisan housing package that modernizes federal housing programs, expands housing supply, promotes innovative development, and strengthens access to affordable housing.

"Across eastern North Carolina, too many hardworking families, young people looking to buy their first home, and seniors living on fixed incomes are feeling the pressure of rising housing costs. Solving this challenge means focusing on practical solutions such as cutting unnecessary red tape, removing barriers that slow down development, encouraging innovative partnerships, and expanding the supply of homes families can afford. When we make it easier to build, invest, and grow, we strengthen families and communities," said Congressman Don Davis. "People who work hard should be able to afford a home, raise their families, and build a future in the communities they love. Expanding access to housing strengthens our workforce, supports small businesses, grows local economies, and helps keep our towns strong. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is about commonsense solutions for the communities we serve."

(Congressman Davis surveys housing initiative in Northampton County)

Included in the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act:

• Innovation Fund: Authorizes a seven-year, $200 million annual competitive grant program for state and local jurisdictions pursuing innovative policies, interventions, and programs to increase housing supply.
• HOME Reform Act: Modernizes and strengthens the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the federal government's largest block grant program dedicated exclusively to creating and preserving affordable housing for low-income households.
• Rural Housing Service Program Improvements: Strengthens the Rural Housing Service Section 504 Home Repair Program, ensures continued rental assistance for tenants living in properties with expiring affordability protections, and makes it easier for nonprofit organizations to acquire and preserve affordable housing.
• Choice in Affordable Housing Act: Streamlines inspection requirements, expands housing opportunities for voucher holders, and encourages greater participation by private landlords in the Housing Choice Voucher Program.
• Manufactured Housing Innovations: Updates the federal definition of manufactured housing and allows for more efficient, cost-effective housing designs.
• HUD Accountability Act: Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to testify before Congress annually on the Department's activities and performance.