Requests the Louisiana Housing Corporation to study the distribution of low income housing tax credits
The resolution aims to identify barriers that hinder equitable distribution of housing tax credits, which could lead to substantial implications on state laws regarding housing and urban development. By investigating the funding pools, scoring criteria, and cost limits present in the Qualified Allocation Plan, the Louisiana Housing Corporation seeks to evaluate how these factors influence the availability of tax credits across different regions. This could potentially level the playing field for cities that feel neglected in the allocation process, consequently impacting housing policies statewide.
House Resolution 158, introduced by Representative Duplessis, urges the Louisiana Housing Corporation to conduct a study regarding the distribution of low income housing tax credit resources as outlined in the Qualified Allocation Plan. The resolution arises from concerns about the inequitable distribution of housing resources, particularly affecting urban areas that house a significant portion of the state’s population. The bill highlights that current methods for calculating development costs may fail to reflect the financial realities in urban communities, where the demand for affordable housing exceeds the available supply.
The general sentiment surrounding HR158 is one of urgency and necessity. There is strong recognition among legislators that the escalating housing costs in urban areas must be addressed, particularly for residents whose incomes do not meet the median gross rent. The discussion implies a collective responsibility to ensure vulnerable communities have access to housing resources. The unanimous vote in favor of HR158 reflects a bipartisan commitment to tackling housing challenges, although there may still be underlying concerns regarding the effectiveness of the implementation of the study's findings.
Notable points of contention lie within the methodologies used for distributing low income housing tax credits, particularly the criteria that may disadvantage urban centers whose development costs differ from those in suburban or rural areas. There is contention around the adequacy of current distribution methods and whether they truly meet the needs of Louisiana's low-income populations. The resolution insists that the corporation not only examines the allocation methods but also considers public comments and outcomes, signaling a need for community engagement in the housing discussion.