H.R. 6644: Housing for the 21st Century Act

The "Housing for the 21st Century Act" is designed to boost the availability of housing in the United States by introducing several measures that focus on easing local development and promoting affordable housing. The bill outlines various approaches, which include:

Streamlined Development Policies

The bill aims to simplify local development policies, which may help expedite the building of new homes. This includes providing funding initiatives and establishing federal guidelines for zoning and construction to make it easier to create affordable housing. It specifically seeks to enhance access to housing in various communities, encompassing both urban and rural areas.

Amendments to the National Housing Act

Key changes to the National Housing Act are proposed, specifically targeting multifamily loan limits. The bill plans to:

• Significantly increase financing caps for loans related to multifamily dwellings.
• Adjust these caps in line with inflation, ensuring they remain relevant over time.

Furthermore, studies will be mandated to address workforce housing challenges and to establish uniform building codes, while also allowing funding for infrastructure improvements supported by housing assistance in designated areas.

Improving Affordable Housing Access

The legislation outlines a strategy to enhance affordable housing through:

• The development of comprehensive housing plans.
• Implementing regulatory reforms that reduce obstacles to building affordable homes.
• Increasing the capacity and frequency of inspections to ensure housing quality and compliance.

Grants will be made available to implement these housing strategies and to support community development efforts, focused on reducing barriers that prevent access to affordable housing.

Family Self-Sufficiency Program

The bill introduces a Family Self-Sufficiency Escrow Expansion Pilot Program, which is aimed at assisting families receiving housing aid. This program allows eligible families (up to 5,000) to open escrow accounts. Here’s how it works:

• When rent increases due to a rise in earned income, the additional amount will be deposited into these escrow accounts.
• Families can access these funds under specific conditions, promoting financial stability and self-sufficiency.

Summary of Goals

Overall, the "Housing for the 21st Century Act" seeks to create more affordable housing options, streamline development processes, support community growth, and empower families striving for financial independence. By addressing both the supply and regulatory framework of housing in the U.S., the bill aims to foster better living conditions throughout various communities.

Relevant Companies

• KB Home (KBH) - As a homebuilder, the company may benefit from increased multifamily financing and streamlined development policies that could lead to more construction opportunities.
• D.R. Horton (DHI) - Another major home construction company that could see a positive impact from changes to zoning regulations and increased housing supply initiatives.