U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings Fights Back Republican Fair Housing Funding Cuts

U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings Fights Back Republican Fair Housing Funding Cuts

U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-Miramar) successfully fought back Bush Administration and Republican efforts this week to cut funding for fair housing programs at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). On Wednesday, by a vote of 231-191, the House of Representatives approved an amendment authored by Representative Hastings and Congressional Black Caucus Representatives Al Green (D-TX) and Barbara Lee (D-CA) increasing funding for HUD's fair housing activities for fiscal year 2006 by more than $7 million, restoring it to the current level.

The following statement was issued by Representative Hastings following Wednesday's vote (House Roll Call 338):

"I am so pleased that my colleagues supported our effort to restore this critical funding. Homeownership embodies the core American values of individuality, responsibility and self-reliance. Owning a home creates neighborhoods that promote growth and stability throughout our communities. Restoring this essential funding for fair housing activities ensures that the American dream in my community can become a reality.

"More than 3.7 million fair housing violations continue to occur each year. Despite this obvious need, the President and Republican's proposal to cut fair housing funding by more than 15 percent was downright irresponsible.

"I was, frankly, appalled and offended that Republican Leaders had the audacity to come to the House floor during debate on our amendment and argue that, ‘The funds [for fair housing assistance] aren't really needed.' Some people just don't get it. Thankfully, the majority of Members in the House do get it, and we were successful in restoring this funding, which will be used to protect the homeownership rights of all Americans."

http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/press_releases/PressRelease.aspx?id=107