Wayne Allard: “Today, Mr. President, I would like to introduce a bill that would provide for more public housing vouchers. I have been…”

“Today, Mr. President, I would like to introduce a bill that would provide for more public housing vouchers. I have been working on this issue in the Housing Subcommittee, and it is my hope that a similar provision will be placed in the Public Housing bill. The original intent of the Federal housing assistance program was to provide temporary housing to poor individuals and families. Since their inception, federal housing programs have grown dramatically. Today they provide $25 billion per year in housing assistance. In my view, the voucher program is the best means for low-income families to find secure affordable rental housing. The voucher program first began in 1974 and has grown to serve over 1.5 million low-income families today. These families are empowered with the choice of where they want to live and are given the freedom to determine what surroundings they desire. Vouchers are the preferable means of providing affordable housing to low-income individuals. Vouchers enjoy wide support, including past Republican and Democratic administrations. In fact, the current Secretary of HUD, Secretary Andrew Cuomo supports an expanded voucher program. Vouchers are very popular, which is demonstrated by the 1.5 million families who are currently using vouchers or certificates. Vouchers empower individuals and promote competition within Public Housing Authorities and within the community, thereby lowering costs and improving conditions for the residents.”