Affordable Housing
The 2008 economic collapse resulted in massive layoffs and underemployment from which we are still recovering. It significantly contributed to the number of Americans experiencing or at risk of becoming homeless, which was already unacceptably high. The demand for affordable, safe housing increased significantly in response.
Estimates suggest that over half a million American men, women and children are currently homeless. Additionally, more than 18 million American households now pay more half of their annual income toward housing, leaving them unable to cover other expenses like medicine and food. That is simply unacceptable.
I am committed to supporting legislation that will help address and prevent homelessness and build affordable housing.
Resources
Department of Housing and Urban Development programs that help prevent and eliminate homelessness
More on Affordable Housing
WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee, reintroduced the Eleanor Smith Inclusive Home Design Act. This bill would make more new homes accessible for people with disabilities, seniors, and veterans. The legislation would require all newly-built single-family homes and townhouses receiving federal funds to meet several accessibility standards.
WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee, Congressman William Lacy Clay (D-MO), Chair of the Housing, Community Development and Insurance Subcommittee, and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) recently sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office requesting a report on the availability of affordable, accessible housing in the twenty-five largest metropolitan areas in the United States.
Specifically, this request directs GAO to explore: