House Passes Nadler Amendment to Fund 10,000 Additional
Section 8 Housing Vouchers

House votes 243-178 to increase Section 8 funding by $70 million

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives last night voted to approve an amendment by Congressman Jerrold Nadler to increase funding for Section 8 vouchers by $70 million—enough to provide 10,000 families with safe, affordable housing.  The amendment to the Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development (TTHUD) Appropriations Act, cosponsored by Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, passed on a decisive 243-178 vote. 

“The additional $70 million will make a tremendous difference in the lives of 10,000 families,” Congressman Nadler said.  “Section 8 plays a crucial role in the housing system in this country, and yet every year it’s a fight to fund it adequately.  Last night’s vote showed that the program is a priority across the country.” 

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is the nation’s most successful federal rental program.  It provides vouchers that allow families the flexibility to receive government subsidized rental housing in the private market.  Compared to residents of public housing, recipients of vouchers have more say in what schools their children attend, and more opportunity to live closer to their place of employment and public transportation.

“We all understand that the budget is extremely tight and that many programs are facing cuts, and we knew that $70 million was a realistic but substantive goal,” Congressman Nadler said.  “It’s clear that we need to do more.”

Congressman Nadler also offered an amendment during floor debate yesterday to highlight the $14 million funding increase in the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program.  Earlier this year, more than 100 Members joined Congressman Nadler in asking the Appropriations Committee for an increase in HOPWA funding in FY 2007.  In fiscal year 2007, HOPWA will be funded at $300 million, its highest level ever.

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