Kathy Castor: “Mr. Speaker, many American families are facing a critical housing crunch. The cost of an apartment or home is rising out…”

“Mr. Speaker, many American families are facing a critical housing crunch. The cost of an apartment or home is rising out of sight. But there is good news from a majority of this Congress that keeps fighting for a new direction for America. The reform provided today through H.R. 1851, under this rule, which has bipartisan support, will help families in need of affordable housing. I would like to thank Housing and Community Development Subcommittee Chair Maxine Waters, and Financial Services Chair Barney Frank for their leadership in housing and commitment to our Nation's families. Our actions today are needed because, over the past few years, the Bush administration has caused great frustration when it comes to housing. The White House eliminated housing opportunities for approximately 150,000 families under a major section 8 funding formula change. The White House refused to release about $1.4 billion in unused voucher funds for affordable housing.”