The House of Representatives passed the Yes In My Backyard (YIMBY) Act without opposition by voice vote this week.
H.R. 4351, introduced by Reps. Denny Heck (D-Wash) and Trey Hollingsworth (R-Ind.), requires local governments receiving federal housing development funds through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program to track and report on policies that may affect housing affordability.
The bill also aims to increase transparency on local land-use policies and encourage localities to reduce barriers to housing production.
“America is missing millions of homes, and solving our nationwide housing crisis will require federal, state, and local governments to work together toward this shared goal,” said Heck in a statement. “Sunlight is the best disinfectant, and we need to identify and reduce barriers to housing construction at the local level. In passing the YIMBY Act, I am proud that Congress is taking a critical first step toward bringing relief to cost-burdened renters and homeowners across America.”
By requiring CDBG recipients to report periodically on the extent to which they are removing discriminatory land-use policies and promoting inclusive and affordable housing, it would encourage more thoughtful and inclusive development practices, said leaders of the National Multifamily Housing Council and National Apartment Association in a letter supporting the legislation.
The Senate companion bill, S. 1919, was introduced by Sens. Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) last June.