The Senate voted 89-10 Thursday to pass a broad housing bill aimed at making housing more accessible and affordable across the United States, marking a rare bipartisan effort in Congress. The legislation would reduce regulations, regulate corporate investors, and expand the use of housing funds for building affordable homes and rentals, according to Senate leaders.
The bill now moves to the House, which previously passed a similar measure earlier this year. Senate Democrats and Republicans expressed support, citing a national housing shortage and rising prices. Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat, emphasized the need for more diverse housing options, including for first-time buyers, renters, seniors, and rural communities.
Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott, R-S.C., led the effort alongside Warren. Scott said the legislation aims to enable more Americans to become homeowners and address longstanding legislative failures. However, hurdles remain, including uncertainty over whether the House will accept the Senate’s version and whether President Donald Trump will sign the bill.
Trump has voiced support for the legislation but recently signaled he would not sign any new measures unless Congress passes a bill requiring voters to show proof of citizenship and ending most mail-in voting. The Senate is expected to consider that measure next week, but it faces stiff opposition from Democrats.
House leaders have indicated they may hold a formal conference to negotiate a final version of the bill, a process that could take months. House Financial Services Chairman French Hill, R-Ark., stressed the importance of getting the details right and addressing concerns raised by House members. Despite uncertainties, the legislation’s supporters say it could help ease the housing shortage and slow rising prices by empowering local governments and easing regulations.
The bill includes provisions to streamline environmental reviews, lift limits on emergency shelter grants, and reduce costs for manufactured and modular homes. It also proposes restricting institutional investors from buying more than 350 single-family homes, a move supported by Trump but criticized by opponents who fear it could reduce rental inventory and increase rents.
Housing market challenges persist, with sales remaining below pre-pandemic levels and home prices rising faster than incomes. The legislation aims to address these issues by promoting construction and affordability, though its ultimate passage remains uncertain amid political debates and upcoming elections.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
