Monday, February 16, 2026

House overwhelmingly passes sweeping bipartisan housing package

The U.S. housing market has been facing a crisis of affordability for years, leaving many Americans struggling to find a place to call home. However, on Monday, the House took a significant step towards addressing this issue by passing the Housing for the 21st Century Act with an overwhelming bipartisan majority of 390-9. This comprehensive housing package, sponsored by House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill (R-Ark.) and ranking member Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), aims to not only alleviate the affordability crisis but also increase homeownership across the country.

The passage of this legislation is a clear indication of the House’s commitment to finding solutions for the pressing issue of housing affordability. The bipartisan support for the bill shows that both sides of the aisle recognize the urgency of the matter and are willing to work together to find a solution. This is a significant achievement in today’s polarized political climate and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the lawmakers involved.

The Housing for the 21st Century Act includes a range of measures that will have a positive impact on the housing market. One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a new federal grant program to assist low-income families in securing affordable housing. This program will provide much-needed financial support to those who are struggling to make ends meet and help them find a safe and stable place to live.

Additionally, the legislation also includes measures to increase homeownership, which has been on the decline in recent years. This includes initiatives to make it easier for first-time homebuyers to enter the market, such as down payment assistance and counseling programs. These measures will not only help individuals and families achieve the dream of homeownership but also stimulate the housing market and boost the economy.

The Housing for the 21st Century Act also addresses the issue of discrimination in the housing market. The bill includes provisions to strengthen fair housing laws and ensure that everyone has equal access to housing opportunities, regardless of their race, religion, or gender. This is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable housing market for all Americans.

In addition to these measures, the legislation also includes provisions to improve the quality of affordable housing and promote energy-efficient and sustainable housing options. This will not only benefit low-income families but also contribute to the overall well-being of our communities and the environment.

The passage of the Housing for the 21st Century Act is a significant victory for the American people. It is a testament to the power of bipartisan collaboration and the commitment of our lawmakers to address the pressing issue of housing affordability. This legislation will have a positive impact on the lives of millions of Americans, providing them with the opportunity to achieve the American dream of homeownership and a stable place to call home.

However, this is just the first step towards addressing the housing crisis in the U.S. It is now up to the Senate to take action and pass this crucial legislation. We urge our senators to put aside their differences and come together to support the Housing for the 21st Century Act. The American people are counting on them to make a positive change in their lives and the future of our country.

In conclusion, the passage of the Housing for the 21st Century Act is a significant milestone in our efforts to address the housing affordability crisis in the U.S. It is a shining example of what can be achieved when lawmakers put aside their differences and work towards a common goal. We applaud the House for their bipartisan efforts and urge the Senate to follow suit. Let us come together and make affordable housing a reality for all Americans.

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