A Response to America's Housing Crisis.
Earlier this summer, the Senate Banking Committee advanced a bipartisan housing reform bill by an overwhelming 24-0 margin. The ROAD to Housing Act (S. 2651), introduced by Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), comprehensively bundled together many bipartisan solutions to addressing the housing crisis affecting millions of Americans. The wide measure includes policies that would help simplify rental assistance, support first-time homebuyers, enable zoning updates and lower barriers to development, thereby expanding housing supply, and helping streamline assistance for vulnerable neighbors experiencing homelessness. As existing affordable housing deteriorates and new construction faces barriers, it is urgent that we speak out for solutions that reflect values of human dignity and community care.
The proposal for housing reforms comes as a crackdown on homeless communities is intensified in Washington, D.C., and as faith leaders have raised prophetic voices of concern. The ELCA Homeless Justice Network and interfaith leaders around the Capitol area including Bishop Leila Ortiz of the ELCA Metro D.C. Synod issued statements about the recent developments, while reaffirming our faith-based commitment to serve people in need of support and reentry to community.
As lack of available housing has become one of the largest drivers of homelessness, Congress should hear from the faith advocates that we need sustainable solutions that address root causes of housing insecurity and homelessness, rather than punitive measures that merely relocate problems. The ROAD to Housing Act will help advance these aims in many ways, including several bills reflecting priorities which Lutheran advocates have supported for many years such as: authorizing disaster assistance programs, preserving and improving rural housing stock, simplifying homeless assistance, creating pathways to homeownership, and other initiatives.
In their oversight role, members of Congress have the opportunity to advance evidence-based approaches that serve families and communities. Urge your lawmakers to advance the legislation now at the ELCA Action Center today. Additional opportunities to raise these issues may be available to advocates locally during August Recess.