Fedorchak supports final passage of 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) joined the U.S. House of Representatives in passing the bipartisan21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, landmark legislation to modernize federal housing programs, cut burdensome regulations, expand housing supply, and help lower housing costs for families and communities across the country.Having now passed both chambers of Congress, the bill heads to President Trump's desk to be signed into law.

"Access to affordable housing is one of the most common concerns I hear about from North Dakotans," Fedorchak said. "Communities across our state are working to grow, attract workers, and create opportunities for families, but too often a lack of available housing stands in the way. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act takes meaningful steps to address that challenge by reducing unnecessary regulations, expanding housing options, and giving local builders and lenders more flexibility to respond to the needs of their communities. I'm glad this legislation to support the American Dream will soon be law."

The United States is currently facing a housing shortage of up to 5.5 million units. Rising construction costs, regulatory delays, outdated zoning constraints, and financing challenges have made it harder for communities to keep pace with demand.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will help address these challenges by:

• Reducing unnecessary regulatory barriers to streamline housing development and affordability.

• Strengthening community and rural banks so they can lend locally and support home construction, small businesses, farmers, and households.

• Allowing the use of ready-to-use, pre-approved home designs so builders can get permits faster and build homes more quickly.

• Modernizing HUD programs, including the HOME Program, to help states increase the supply of affordable housing.

• Updating rules for manufactured housing to expand affordable housing options.

• Exempting small-scale housing developments from burdensome federal environmental reviews and giving local jurisdictions more flexibility.