Full Breakdown
Bipartisan Housing Legislation Advances in Congress
2/11/2026, 1:23:55 AM
Overview of the Housing for the 21st Century Act
On Monday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Housing for the 21st Century Act with an overwhelming vote of 390-9. This bipartisan legislation aims to address the ongoing affordability crisis in the housing market and promote homeownership across the nation. Sponsored by House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill (R-Ark.) and ranking member Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), the bill includes over 20 provisions designed to modernize federal housing programs and enhance the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s HOME Investment Partnerships Program.
Legislative Context and Similarities with Other Bills
The Housing for the 21st Century Act is part of a broader legislative effort to tackle high housing costs and a nationwide supply shortage. It shares significant similarities with the ROAD to Housing Act, which was sponsored by Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in 2025. Both bills propose to streamline regulatory requirements, expand financing options, and enhance oversight of housing programs. Notably, 17 of the 38 sections in the Housing for the 21st Century Act align with provisions in the ROAD to Housing Act, indicating a strong bipartisan consensus on the need for comprehensive housing reform.
Official Statements on the Legislation
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) praised the passage of the bill, attributing the housing affordability crisis to "Bidenflation" and outdated regulations. He emphasized that the legislation is a crucial step toward increasing the housing supply by reducing regulatory barriers and modernizing HUD programs. Hill and Rep. Mike Flood (R-Neb.) also highlighted the bill's potential to expand housing options and lower costs for families.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the overwhelming support, nine lawmakers voted against the bill, including Reps. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.), and Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas). Critics of the legislation have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed measures and the potential for unintended consequences in local housing markets.
Next Steps in the Legislative Process
The Housing for the 21st Century Act now moves to the Senate, where it is expected that lawmakers will consider amendments and negotiate differences with the ROAD to Housing Act. The reconciliation process will be crucial in determining which provisions will ultimately be included in the final legislation. As Congress continues to prioritize housing affordability, the outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the future of housing policy in the United States.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When there aren’t enough homes, prices go up. The Housing for the 21st Century Act includes real, bipartisan solutions to boost development by clearing out red tape and letting communities and local banks do their job. That’s how we expand supply, lower costs and give families more options,” — French Hill, Chair, House Financial Services Committee
- “Housing costs have soared beyond the reach of millions of American families thanks to Bidenflation, while outdated and burdensome red tape has constrained our nation’s affordable housing supply and limited our ability to expand it,” — Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House
This legislative effort reflects a growing recognition among lawmakers of the urgent need to address housing affordability and supply challenges in the United States.
