On Monday, February 9, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed H.R. 6644, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, in a strong bipartisan vote of 390–9.

The landmark legislation, sponsored by House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill (R-AR) and Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA), aims to address the national housing shortage by modernizing federal programs and reducing regulatory barriers.

Key Provisions of the Act

Streamlining Regulations: Exempts certain low-impact rehabilitation and infill projects from full National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews to accelerate construction.
Modernizing HUD Programs: Increases income eligibility for the HOME Investment Partnerships Program and allows Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to be used for new housing construction.
Expanding Finance Options: Directs the FHA to develop a pilot program for small-dollar mortgages (under $100,000) and lifts the bank “public welfare investment” cap from 15% to 20% to unlock billions in private sector investment.
Promoting Innovation: Removes the requirement that manufactured homes must have a permanent chassis and provides grants for local “pattern books” of pre-approved home designs.
Veteran & Renter Protections: Excludes veterans’ disability benefits from income calculations for the VASH program and establishes a federal eviction assistance helpline.

Next Steps

The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to be reconciled with the Senate’s counterpart, the ROAD to Housing Act, to create a final bicameral package for the President’s desk.

Peace be with you