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Learn all about The YIMBY Act here. 

Yesterday, the House Financial Services Committee achieved a significant victory by passing the Yes In My Back Yard (YIMBY) Act with a unanimous 48-0 vote. Championed by Rep. Flood (R-NE1), the bill addresses the housing crisis, focusing on the 4 million home shortfall in the current market. Rep. Flood noted that the legislation, initially introduced in the 116th Congress by then Chairwoman Waters, previously passed the House in 2020 but failed in the Senate. He expressed hope for bipartisan support to finally enact the bill.

Several Congress members, including Rep. Waters (D-CA43) and Rep. Davidson (R-OH8), voiced strong support for the legislation. They emphasized the importance of the Community Development Block Grant program and the need for better data to aid development, particularly in affordable areas like Ohio. They also stressed that the bill respects local control over zoning and planning while supporting effective local policies.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA7) proposed an amendment to include tracking housing fairness and equity goals. However, Rep. Flood argued that the current bill was a carefully balanced compromise. Quoting Rep. Waters from the 2020 markup, he urged opposition to the amendment to maintain bipartisan support. The amendment was rejected in a 27-21 vote, but Rep. Pressley continued to support the bill without it.

Up for Growth supports the YIMBY Act’s passage through the committee and looks forward to its final approval.