Congress·In Committee·H.R. 6957

Affordable Housing: Building on Church and College Land

Yes in God's Backyard Act

Legislative Progress

House

Senate

President

Law

This bill, introduced by Ms. Barragan and Mr. Obernolte, would provide money and expert help to religious groups and colleges that want to build affordable apartments on their property. The goal is to use land these organizations already own to create more places for people to live.
The program would focus on helping those most in need, including veterans, people with disabilities, and families with very low incomes. For these homes, rent would be capped at 30% of a family's income to ensure it stays affordable.
Congress would set aside $325 million between 2026 and 2031 for this effort. Most of the money would go toward "challenge grants" for local governments that agree to cut through red tape and make it easier for these groups to start construction.
The government would also provide technical training to help these organizations understand the business side of housing. This includes teaching them how to find construction partners, manage rental properties, and follow federal housing laws.

2 milestones2 actions

Jan 7, 2026House

Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

Jan 7, 2026

Introduced in House

2 bills

Yes in God's Backyard Act

Jan 20 — Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

Yes in God's Backyard Act

Sep 4 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Yes in God's Backyard Act

Bill NumberHR 6957

Congress119th Congress

ChamberHouse of Representatives

Latest ActionReferred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

(1)

R: 1

Congress.gov

Official legislative information

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