Bipartisan housing bill passes Congress but awaits Trump's signature

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act has passed both chambers of Congress with strong bipartisan backing. The bill seeks to tackle the shortage of affordable housing by loosening construction rules and restricting corporate bulk purchases of homes. On 22 June 2025, the Senate approved the legislation by 85 votes to 5. Support came from a wide coalition, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and other Catholic organisations. Metropolitan Archbishop Borys A. Gudziak had earlier written to senators, calling housing a fundamental human right.

Some lawmakers missed the vote after severe thunderstorms grounded flights at Ronald Reagan National Airport. Despite the bill’s success, President Trump delayed the signing ceremony. He insists the SAVE America Act must pass first.

The SAVE America Act would require proof of citizenship and ID for federal voter registration. Critics warn it could prevent eligible citizens from voting and claim existing fraud protections are sufficient. Laura Peralta-Schulte, senior director of Network, described the delay as a temporary obstacle for the housing bill. The ROAD to Housing Act now awaits the president’s signature. Its provisions aim to make housing more accessible and curb corporate control of the market. The bill’s fate remains tied to the ongoing debate over the SAVE America Act.