Article Summary –
Vice President Kamala Harris announced that the Biden administration would provide $5.5 billion for housing-related projects across the US, aimed at expanding affordable housing, combating homelessness, supporting people with HIV/AIDS needing housing, and housing for people recovering from substance abuse. The funding will be used to build more affordable homes, support renters and homeowners, while also lowering costs, building wealth, and creating jobs. The initiative follows Biden’s call in his State of the Union address for legislation to build at least two million new homes, provide assistance for first-time homebuyers, and lower housing rental costs.
Vice President Kamala Harris Announces Housing-Related Funding
Vice President Kamala Harris declared on May 8 that the Biden administration will commit $5.5 billion to housing projects across America. The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s funds will target affordable housing expansion, homelessness, and housing support for HIV/AIDS patients and those in recovery from substance abuse.
Impact on Pennsylvania and Specific Programs
Community Development Block Grants will allocate $185 million to Pennsylvania for housing and economic opportunities, especially for low and moderate-income residents. HUD reports that these programs assisted 62,000 families nationally in 2023. Also, $53 million will be dedicated to securing affordable housing for low-income families while $1 million will aid transitional housing for recovering addicts.
Additional Funding and Biden’s Commitment
Other funds include $16 million for homeless shelters, $5 million for the Housing Trust Fund to expand affordable housing, and $14 million for housing support for people with HIV/AIDS. This move aligns with Biden’s previous State of the Union address where he urged Congress to build two million new homes, assist first-time homebuyers and lower rental costs.
Contrast with Trump Administration Policies
Contrarily, former President Donald Trump proposed to cut HUD funding and rental assistance, and rescinded a rule requiring federal housing aid recipients to follow nondiscriminatory practices. However, despite Trump’s claims of decreasing crime, FBI data indicates murder rates rose at the end of his term, before falling in 2022 and 2023.
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