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Congress·In Committee·about 1 month ago

Congress Proposes $375 Million to Help Churches and Colleges Build Affordable Housing

Also known as: Yes in God's Backyard Act

Legislative Progress

✓ Filed
Review
House
Senate
President

Impacts

Positive Impacts(6)
Housing Assistance
Helps

Creates $375M in new federal grants and technical help to build affordable rental housing on church and college land.

Military Veteran
Helps

Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness are specifically prioritized for the new affordable housing units.

Physical Disability
Helps

The bill prioritizes building accessible rental housing for people with disabilities.

Mental Health
Helps

People experiencing homelessness—often linked to mental health struggles—are a priority population for the new housing.

Student
Helps

Colleges could use their excess land for affordable housing, potentially helping students facing housing insecurity.

Small Business Owner
Helps

Local housing development projects could create contracting and business opportunities in communities that receive grants.

Key Points

  • This bill, called the 'Yes in God’s Backyard Act,' would provide $375 million in federal funds to help religious organizations and colleges build affordable rental housing on land they already own.
  • The program would offer expert advice and grants to help these groups navigate the complicated process of building apartments, especially for veterans, people with disabilities, and those at risk of homelessness.
  • To qualify for the new housing, a household's rent would be capped at 30% of their income, ensuring that the homes remain affordable for people earning the average income or less in their local area.
  • Local governments could also receive 'Challenge Grants' if they change their local laws to make it easier for churches and schools to start these housing projects.
  • The funding is spread over several years, starting with $75 million for technical support and $300 million for grants to be distributed between 2026 and 2031.
HousingEducation

Milestones

2 milestones2 actions
Jan 20, 2026House

Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

Jan 20, 2026

Introduced in House

Related News

3 articles
WLRN·about 1 month ago

Yes, in God's Backyard, Florida AG's memo targets racial equity laws, and more

This report examines the 'Yes in God's Backyard' (YIGBY) movement, focusing on new laws that allow religious institutions to build affordable housing on their land regardless of zoning. It discusses the momentum of the federal YIGBY Act and its potential to address the national housing crisis.

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The Frontier·about 1 month ago

Oklahoma lawmakers propose changes to laws on housing, homelessness and eviction

The article details various housing bills filed for the 2026 legislative session, including a state-level version of the 'Yes In God’s Backyard Act.' The measure is designed to make it easier for faith-based organizations to apply for and develop affordable housing on their existing properties.

C=
Royal Examiner·about 2 months ago

As Housing Costs Rise, Lawmakers Revive Push for Affordability and Stability

This report highlights the 'Yes in God’s Backyard Act' (YIGBY) as a key federal effort gaining attention. The bill would provide grants and technical assistance to remove local zoning barriers, encouraging religious institutions and colleges to create safe, affordable homes on their land.

C=

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Yes in God's Backyard Act

Bill NumberHR 7152
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionReferred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(8)
D: 8

Analysis generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, this should not be considered legal or professional advice. Always verify information with official government sources.