WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. John Fetterman is pressing the Department of Housing and Urban Development to implement a congressionally authorized home-repair program modeled on Pennsylvania’s approach, arguing that delays could leave aging properties out of the nation’s housing supply.
Fetterman, a Pennsylvania Democrat, sent a letter Wednesday with Republican Sen. Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming and Democratic Rep. Nikema Williams of Georgia urging HUD Secretary Scott Turner to establish the Whole Home Repairs program through the agency’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes.
The program was authorized as part of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which became law in July and included Fetterman’s Whole-Home Repairs Act. The law authorizes HUD to operate the program through 2031.
The federal pilot is designed to provide renovation and repair grants to homeowners and small landlords, extending an approach already used in Pennsylvania to preserve existing housing.
Pennsylvania’s program provided grants and forgivable loans for property repairs and weatherization while also supporting workforce training and pre-apprenticeship programs.
“Almost 7 million Americans live in homes that are in need of significant repair, with deficiencies including leaky roofs, faulty wiring, and mold,” the lawmakers wrote.
They argued that deteriorating housing particularly affects seniors who may want to downsize but face selling properties at steep discounts because of needed repairs. They pointed to Pennsylvania’s program as evidence that repair assistance can help move larger homes back into the market for growing families.
The lawmakers are also seeking a meeting between their staffs and HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes to discuss implementation, including the use of appropriated funds and requirements governing streamlining and reporting.
“Any delays will mean millions of American families may never realize the benefit of this program,” the lawmakers wrote. “We were proud to help the Whole Home Repairs bill become law, and we stand ready to support you in making it a reality for Americans.”
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