Yes in God's Backyard Act
Should this bill be enacted, it would amend the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to include new provisions for the removal of barriers to affordable housing contributions by faith-based organizations. The legislation would establish a technical assistance program that seeks to educate and support local governments and organizations in developing and preserving rental housing. It also outlines grant funding opportunities, with prioritized allocation for projects aimed at families earning below certain income thresholds and those addressing specific community needs.
The bill SB3910, titled the 'Yes in God’s Backyard Act', aims to provide technical assistance and grants to faith-based organizations, institutions of higher education, and local governments to increase the supply of affordable rental housing. It is designed to address the challenges many communities face in terms of housing shortages, particularly for low-income families and vulnerable populations such as veterans and individuals at risk of homelessness. The bill defines 'affordable rental housing' as housing that costs no more than 30% of the income of a household that meets specified income criteria.
Notably, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of public funding to faith-based organizations. Critics may express concerns about the appropriateness of government resources being directed towards organizations with religious affiliations and whether it aligns with broader secular governance principles. Additionally, the process of determining eligibility for grants and the criteria for prioritizing specific housing projects could become contentious if perceived as favoring certain organizations over others.
The bill proposes substantial funding, with an authorization of up to $50 million per fiscal year allocated towards the initiatives outlined. The efforts include not just financial support, but also outreach and technical assistance aimed at helping grantees understand how to navigate local regulations and public feedback. This holistic approach is intended to foster a collaborative environment among various stakeholders involved in housing development.