1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

I'm writing to encourage your support of the Homes Act introduced by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Tina Smith. This ambitious legislation would provide for the construction of millions of new affordable homes and apartments across the country, with rents based on tenants' incomes and permanently affordable purchase prices. It aims to address the critical housing crisis facing millions of Americans by establishing a social housing program backed by federal funding. The current system has failed to meet the housing needs of low-income individuals and families, leaving many struggling to find rental accommodation within their means. The Homes Act proposes a viable solution by creating an authority within the Department of Housing and Urban Development to acquire properties and ensure these homes remain affordable by law. This model has proven successful in cities like Vienna and projects like Co-op City in New York, demonstrating the financial and social sustainability of such initiatives. Estimates suggest the Homes Act could build and preserve over 1.25 million new homes, including more than 850,000 for the lowest-income households. The time has come for the federal government to invest in social housing and provide millions of Americans with a safe, comfortable, and affordable place to call home. This legislation represents a chance to address the housing crisis and ensure access to secure and dignified living conditions for all.