NAHRO Statement on the American Jobs Plan

In response to the release of the White House’s fact sheet on the American Jobs Plan, NAHRO President Sunny Shaw made the following statement:

NAHRO is pleased that the President’s “American Jobs Plan” recognizes that housing is infrastructure, and that it calls for resources to expand and preserve the country’s supply of affordable homes, among other critical national investments. 

NAHRO has advocated strongly for a major infusion of funding to address the backlog of public housing capital repairs,  so we are glad to see that the proposal makes a substantial down payment by targeting $40 billion to preserve and modernize public housing units.   Also, we called for additional federal operating subsidies to support the expansion of affordable housing, as well as increased investments in local communities, so we are pleased to see language suggesting expansions in project-based rental assistance and the CDBG program.

NAHRO members also understand that internet access is a vital part of our nation’s infrastructure, and we are pleased that the Administration is committed to closing the digital divide.  Additionally, resources for modernizing our public schools and investing in community colleges will also help create greater economic equity, as will investments in rural and Native American communities.  

As this plan is being deliberated, NAHRO will continue to call for: 

·         at least $70 billion for public housing repairs 

·         more funding of the HOME Investment Partnership Program, and  

·         an increase in tenant-based vouchers. 

NAHRO stands ready to work with the Administration and Congress on these vital priorities.

About NAHRO

NAHRO, which was established in 1933, is a membership organization of 20,000 housing and community development providers and professionals throughout the United States. NAHRO members create and manage affordable housing for low- and middle-income families, and support vibrant communities that enhance the quality of life for all. They administer more than 3 million homes for more than 8 million people.