Passed Senate·Last action 45 days ago

Housing bill would ease building rules and update federal housing programs

Officially: 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act

The bill would make it easier to build some kinds of housing and would update several federal housing programs. It also changes some banking rules that affect community lenders, especially in rural areas. The real impact would depend a lot on how HUD, USDA, and local governments use these new rules.

Where it stands

Passed House. Now before the Senate.

This is the moment to act.

What this bill actually does

HUD would have to publish detailed zoning and land-use guidance to help states and cities allow more housing. It would have 3 years to do that, after a 2-year process of consultation and public comment led by HUD's research office.
The bill would shut down HUD's current Regulatory Barriers Clearinghouse. It would repeal the law behind that office and replace it with the new zoning-guidance system and reporting.
HUD could run a pilot grant program to speed up small homebuilding. It would fund design review and ready-made plans for small mixed-income buildings like duplexes, fourplexes, and cottage courts, reserve at least 10% for rural areas, and end after 7 years.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill passed the House and is now before the Senate — this is the moment to act.

Where your representatives stand

Enter your ZIP to see how your senators and member of Congress have voted, sponsored, or spoken on this bill.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Increases housing supply: By removing certain regulations, like the permanent chassis rule for manufactured homes, the bill could make it cheaper and easier to build new homes.
Modernizes outdated programs: Updates to existing programs could make them more flexible and efficient, helping more people access affordable housing.
Promotes innovation: Encourages new housing designs and technologies that could make homes more affordable and efficient.

✕Arguments against

Safety concerns: Some might worry that removing regulations, like the chassis requirement, could lead to safety issues in manufactured homes.
Environmental impact: Streamlining environmental reviews could lead to less thorough assessments, potentially harming the environment.
Cost: Implementing new programs and technologies might require significant funding, which could be a concern for some taxpayers.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

Latest: Message on Senate action sent to the House. (3/16/2026)

MAR 16

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Housing bill would ease building rules and update federal housing programs

Where your representatives stand

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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