On Tuesday (Dec. 11), U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-LA) introduced the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, a bill originally introduced in the Senate by U.S. Sen. r Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). This bill will reduce rent costs and provide greater access to home ownership through first-time homebuyer payment assistance.
“Having a home is one of the most essential human needs for thriving families and individuals, but many families long across the nation for far too long have been restricted from homeownership due to increasing rent prices and paychecks that don’t match,” said Rep. Richmond. “The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act is a comprehensive bill aimed to combat the affordable housing crisis that continues to plague our nation. Having stable, affordable housing is life-changing and brings the promise of economic freedom to all. This legislation aims to provide that for millions of American families, namely African American communities who have been historically and systematically left without stable housing. I applaud the work of Senator Warren on introducing this bill in the Senate and am honored to carry the torch in introducing it in the House.”
Rep. Richmond’s effort has been well-received by affording and fair housing advocates.
HousingNOLA Executive Director Andreanecia Morris says, “HousingNOLA has been working to implement policy and secure the investments necessary to create over 30,000 affordable housing opportunities, at an estimated $5.8 billion, needed to end the housing crisis that threatens New Orleans’ future. The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act gets us closer to that goal and securing the economic stability New Orleanians deserve. This bill also represents a chance to align our policy priorities with other needs and truly put housing first by incentivizing the implementation of strategies like the Smart Housing Mix. As a country, we can no longer make substantial investments in our cities without ensuring that they are equitable and affordable for all.”Samuel Sanders, executive director of Baton Rouge’s Mid City Redevelopment ays the legislation is needed.
“The Housing FIRST Alliance would like to thank Congressman Richmond for stepping forward to introduce the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, which is a promising move forward from disinvested communities across our country,” says Sanders. “Baton Rouge has been subjected to redlining for years, and we need legislation that will end unfair practices and enable all families to live better lives. We need as much assistance as possible to help Baton Rouge overcome the severe housing crisis. This bill viably helps address that issue.”
