STATEHOUSE (Feb. 3, 2023) – The House Ways and Means Committee Wednesday advanced State Rep. Doug Miller's (R-Elkhart) proposed legislation that would provide more housing options to Hoosiers.
According to the Hoosier Housing Needs Coalition, there is a tremendous need for rental homes, especially for those who are low-income or can't afford up to $1,250 per month. Miller said Indiana's housing shortage is a complex issue fueled by regulatory requirements, supply chain shortages and infrastructure costs, which were further magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
House Bill 1005 would create the Residential Housing Infrastructure Assistance Program as a tool for communities to receive state help in addressing their infrastructure needs to open up more housing opportunities in their communities. For example, loans provided through the program would enable locals to invest in public infrastructure such as water distribution systems, sanitary sewer systems and electric or gas distribution lines. Currently, these significant investments are a road block for local governments and developers to support and create more housing options.
"House Bill 1005 is a monumental step for Indiana in order to expand housing options for Hoosiers," Miller said. "Housing is a critical long-term asset that empowers communities to attract and retain residents, grow their workforce and support the economy."
The program would be a revolving fund in order to provide assistance for the long term. To benefit smaller, more rural communities where the lack of housing is more prevalent, Miller said 70 percent of the funding would be for municipalities under 50,000 people.
Miller's legislation is supported by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, Indiana Association of Affordable Housing, Indiana Builders Association, Indiana Apartment Association and the Indiana Association of Realtors.
House Bill 1005 now moves to the full House for further consideration. For more information visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
