The Senate passed a bipartisan housing affordability package Thursday that could advance a number of proposals on permitting reform and disaster recovery.
Senators approved the “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act,” sponsored by Senate Banking Chair Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and ranking member Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), on an 89-10 vote.
The legislation is an updated version of a housing bill that passed out of the House last month. It contains provisions to accelerate reviews for housing projects under the National Environmental Policy Act, making it a small part of Congress’ broader effort to streamline permit approvals for the construction of new homes, critical infrastructure and energy projects.
“Not only is this bill about cutting regulatory red tape, lowering costs, and expanding housing supply while generating no new spending, but it’s about making sure people … have even greater access to economic opportunity and the American dream of homeownership,” Scott said in a statement.
