By Deanna Ross
WASHINGTON — The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated housing hardships across the nation. As more Americans struggle with a lack of affordable housing, housing instability, utility debt and mortgage delinquency, the spotlight is on states, territories and Congress to seek solutions.
NCSL recently convened a briefing to discuss these urgent needs with NCSL members and Capitol Hill staffers.
Hawaii Rep. Nadine K. Nakamura (D), who chairs the Housing Committee, discussed the role the Hawaii Legislature is playing in providing more access to affordable housing.
Jennifer Schwartz, from the National Council of State Housing Agencies, provided an update on the LIFELINE Act and other federal legislation that NCSL members and Hill staffers alike will have on their radar in the coming months.
NCSL staff offered an overview of state housing policy legislation and how states have used federal COVID relief funds for housing initiatives and enactments addressing affordable housing and rental assistance.
Watch a recording of the briefing.
Deanna Ross is a legislative associate in NCSL’s State-Federal Relations Program.