December 13, 2018 

LAWT News Service 

 

Congressman Cedric Richmond (D-LA) introduced the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, a bill originally introduced in the Senate by United States Senator 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.”

 

“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. 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.” — Samuel Sanders, Executive Director of Mid City Redevelopment of Baton Rouge, Louisiana

 

“Housing NOLA 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.” — Andreanecia M. Morris, Executive Director of HousingNOLA

 

“On behalf of the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), I commend Congressman Richmond for his leadership in advancing bold and comprehensive solutions to help end housing poverty and homelessness in America once and for all. The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act puts forward an ambitious plan to significantly expand investments in proven solutions, like the National Housing Trust Fund, to help millions of the lowest income families who struggle to pay rent and put food on the table, buy medication, or save for a rainy day. Congress should quickly enact this bill to provide the lowest income seniors, people with disabilities, families with children, and others the breadth of opportunities that come from having a stable, affordable place to call home.” — Diane Yentel, President and CEO of NLIHC

 

Cosponsors of this bill include Representatives Elijah Cummings (D-MD), Barbara Lee (D-CA), and Gwen Moore (D-WI).

Category: News