Keeping Affordable Housing in Forgotten Communities Act
Impact
As a result of this legislation, local governments and housing organizations will gain enhanced opportunities to incorporate affordable housing initiatives and funding into their infrastructure projects. This may include measures to ensure that existing affordable housing is preserved when conducting urban development activities. By developing criteria to assess the impacts on rent and homeownership post-grant allocations, the bill seeks to mitigate potential displacement that often accompanies such infrastructure improvements and expansions.
Summary
House Bill 9944, titled the 'Keeping Affordable Housing in Forgotten Communities Act', aims to amend the existing Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The bill focuses on ensuring that considerations related to affordable housing are integrated into the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program. This amendment is intended to address the needs of communities that have historically experienced disinvestment and displacement, striving to create frameworks that will support the development and preservation of affordable housing in areas impacted by infrastructure projects.
Contention
The bill has generated discussions regarding the balance between necessary infrastructure development and protecting vulnerable communities. Proponents argue that it will help combat the trend of displacement often observed when significant infrastructure changes are made, thereby safeguarding the interests of low- to moderate-income residents. However, critics may express concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing such requirements and whether they could inadvertently slow down essential infrastructure upgrades or lead to more cumbersome planning processes.