Rockland Reporter

Representative Mike Lawler's legislation, the HUD Accountability Act, has garnered unanimous support from the House Financial Services Committee. The bill, which mandates the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to testify annually before key committees, was passed with a resounding vote of 50 to 0.

In a statement, Congressman Lawler emphasized the importance of addressing the housing crisis, stating, “With families in New York and across our nation feeling the squeeze from skyrocketing housing costs amid a crippling affordability crisis, we have got to take this housing crisis seriously.” He further highlighted his commitment to tackling housing challenges by introducing multiple bills aimed at reducing housing costs and addressing the workforce housing crunch.

Expressing his concern over the lack of communication from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Lawler stated, “The American people and Congress need to hear from their Housing Secretary on these issues and that her Department is taking them seriously. Unfortunately, before her most recent hearing with us, it had been 906 days since she last spoke to us. That's unacceptable.” He underscored the necessity of his legislation, emphasizing the significance of annual testimony by the Secretary to ensure accountability and transparency.

The unanimous support for the HUD Accountability Act in the House Financial Services Committee reflects a bipartisan recognition of the need for regular updates and engagement on housing-related matters. Congressman Lawler's proactive approach to addressing housing challenges has been well-received, with efforts to bring attention to the issue through initiatives such as hosting a field hearing in Rockland County.

New York's 17th Congressional District, represented by Congressman Lawler, encompasses a significant area just north of New York City, including Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.