Six States Where Housing is Hard to Find: What Governors Are Doing About It
Housing shortages are a critical issue for many states, causing financial strain for households and presenting significant political challenges. Governors play a key role in addressing this issue, navigating complex regulations that often increase construction costs and delay new developments.
Population shifts due to the pandemic, restrictive zoning laws, and stagnant wages amid persistent inflation have all contributed to rising housing prices. This situation pressures governors to devise effective solutions to the affordable housing crisis, as inaction can lead to electoral consequences. A recent poll indicates that 75% of voters view housing affordability as a significant problem.
Governors are implementing diverse strategies to address the housing shortage, from building smaller homes to enhancing renter protections. Here’s a look at how governors from six states are tackling the issue:
California
Governor Gavin Newsom has taken an aggressive stance against local governments that hinder housing development. He has filed lawsuits against cities that fail to meet state-assigned housing targets and signed numerous bills to streamline planning processes. Newsom’s approach is driven by his experience as mayor of San Francisco, where he faced resistance to new housing projects. California aims to build 2.5 million new housing units by 2030 to meet the needs of its 39 million residents.
Utah
Governor Spencer Cox considers high housing prices the state’s biggest threat. With Utah experiencing rapid population growth, Cox aims to build 35,000 starter homes by 2028. The state legislature has supported this vision, passing bills to reduce building costs and create a $300 million fund for affordable housing. Cox has warned that if cities do not act to increase housing stock, the state may intervene with zoning law changes.
Oregon
Governor Tina Kotek has prioritized addressing Oregon’s housing shortage, exacerbated by high homelessness rates. The legislature approved $369 million to fund middle-income housing, homeless shelters, infrastructure projects, and rental assistance. Kotek also repealed a law decriminalizing possession of hard drugs, which had been linked to increased homelessness and drug issues.
New York
Governor Kathy Hochul reached a significant housing reform deal with the state legislature, focusing on New York City. The package includes tax breaks for rental housing, incentives for converting office buildings to apartments, and rent control measures. While the reforms are substantial, Hochul’s broader statewide plan, which faced opposition and failed last year, may be revisited to address the housing crisis comprehensively.
Massachusetts
Governor Maura Healey is pushing a $4.1 billion housing bond bill to generate 65,000 new housing units. Despite slow progress, Healey remains committed to increasing production and has supported a zoning law to create new housing near transit centers. Healey and her team are advocating for pro-housing policies statewide, aiming to address the state’s need for 200,000 new housing units.
Alabama
Governor Kay Ivey signed legislation to create affordable housing through tax credits. This initiative aims to develop 2,500 housing units annually and supports low-income workers, encouraging workforce participation. While the program’s funding was reduced from the initial proposal, it is seen as a first step toward more aggressive housing affordability measures.
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These governors are exploring various strategies to address the housing crisis, each facing unique challenges and political landscapes. As housing affordability remains a pressing issue, these initiatives are crucial for ensuring stable and affordable living conditions for their residents.
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