The White House is reassessing elements of a bipartisan housing bill as concerns from President Donald Trump raise new questions about its future in the House.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
President Donald Trump has privately raised concerns about a Senate-passed housing measure aimed at addressing affordability, creating new uncertainty around the legislation’s prospects as it awaits consideration in the House.
According to a Politico report, Trump took issue with specific language in the proposal known as the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, particularly a provision targeting institutional investors in the single-family housing market.
The provision would require large-scale investors to sell off single-family homes built as long-term rental properties after a period of seven years. The language was originally included to address concerns about Wall Street’s growing presence in residential housing.
Trump had contemplated publicly criticizing the measure but ultimately chose not to issue a statement. Despite that decision, his reservations have prompted concern among lawmakers working to advance the bill, especially as they attempt to secure passage in the House without modifications.
The legislation previously cleared the Senate with bipartisan backing but has since stalled, with House approval now dependent on alignment between congressional Republicans and the White House.
“I think the White House wants to get it done, but I think they’re going to have to really probably take some work to get the action in the House,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said in remarks to Politico.
Supporters of the investor-focused provision argue that requiring the sale of rental properties could expand opportunities for individual homebuyers, potentially increasing homeownership rates. Critics, however, contend that the mandate has already discouraged investment capital needed to build new housing inventory.
Administration officials are now working to secure support among Republicans on the House Financial Services Committee, as discussions continue over whether the bill can move forward in its current form.
Sources familiar with the negotiations indicated that a House vote could take place after lawmakers return from their May recess, contingent on final approval from the White House.
In a statement, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said, “President Trump has been laser-focused on making housing more affordable.”
“The President will not stop fighting until the American Dream of homeownership is within reach for every American, which is why he continues to sign bold new executive orders and calls on Congress to pass further legislation,” Ingle added.
The administration had previously expressed support for the broader legislation, which includes multiple provisions designed to address housing shortages and improve affordability nationwide.
Lawmakers and administration officials have also viewed the measure as a potential policy achievement ahead of upcoming elections, signaling a focus on economic issues tied to cost of living and housing access.