Local congressman introduces housing, homelessness policy solutions act
‘Legislation will help protect millions from losing their homes and help millions more put a roof over their head without breaking the bank,’ says Rep. Carbajal.
– Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) and Congresswoman Val Hoyle (D-Lane County Oregon) have introduced the Decent, Affordable, Safe Housing for All (DASH) Act, a comprehensive housing bill aimed at implementing a range of housing and homelessness policy solutions across the United States. The legislation, led by Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in the Senate, addresses affordable quality housing concerns through various provisions.
“Their wealth of experience and insight will support our mission to inspire philanthropy and serves as a catalyst and connector for community impact,” said Heidi McPherson, CEO of The Community Foundation.
The DASH Act includes the creation of a new $15,000 refundable downpayment tax credit for low and middle-income Americans purchasing their first home. It also introduces a Middle Income Housing Tax Credit and strengthens the existing Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, incentivizing the creation of affordable housing options for community residents below the area’s median income.
Salud Carbajal.
“From strengthening tax credits for low-income and middle-class households to helping those experiencing or at-risk of homelessness, and much more – our legislation will help protect millions from losing their homes and help millions more put a roof over their head without breaking the bank,” said Rep. Carbajal.
Additionally, the bill creates a new Renter’s Tax Credit to support the 19 million American families experiencing rent burden, spending more than 30% of their monthly income on rent. The legislation prioritizes Housing Choice Vouchers and expands supportive services for families with children at risk or experiencing homelessness.
“I am proud to introduce the DASH Act which is a comprehensive bill that will help increase access to affordable housing for low- and middle-income families and take concrete steps to address homelessness,” said Rep. Hoyle.
Furthermore, the DASH Act incentivizes environmentally friendly construction strategies and land use policies. The bill is projected to contribute to the construction of an estimated three million additional homes in the U.S. over the next decade.
“In a nation as wealthy as ours, no child should grow up without a roof over their head. It’s clear that people experiencing homelessness need a lot more assistance than is currently provided,” said Senator Wyden, the author of the Senate version of the DASH Act. “Taking proactive measures to prevent homelessness in the future not only alleviates individual suffering but also saves taxpayer dollars. That’s why I’m proud to have introduced the DASH Act, and why I’m happy to have a partner in the House like Rep. Hoyle in the fight to increase affordable housing supply, invest in services for unhoused people, and expand homeownership opportunities for working families.”
A summary of the DASH Act can be found here.
The text of the bill can be found here.
