Washington, DC – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) today introduced a resolution that begins the process for launching a petition to discharge the National Housing Trust Fund, H.R. 1102, from committee and bring to the House for a vote. Under House rules, if 218 Members sign the petition, the bill will be considered by the House. H.R. 1102 has 212 sponsors. Congressman Michael Capuano (D-MA) and Congressman Bernie Sanders (D-VT) are also co-sponsors of the discharge petition.

The National Housing Trust Fund would construct 1.5 million affordable housing rental units over the next decade, and in the process, would create approximately 1.8 million new jobs and nearly $50 billion in wages.

“This is a very proud day for all those people across the county in need of quality, affordable housing,” said Lee.   “The Lee-Capuano-Sanders Discharge petition will set in motion the long-awaited process of starting a national affordable housing production program.”

1.45 million California housing units are in need of replacement in California, and 60% of substandard housing is rental housing.  Housing costs are so high in the Bay Area that in order for a person to afford two-bedroom apartment, he or she must earn approximately $21 per hour, even though the minimum wage is $6.25.

“Passing this bill would represent a historic victory for millions of Americans across the country,” said Lee. “We will work hard to get the 218 signatures needed to successfully get the bill to the floor.”

                                    

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