HOUSES Act of 2024

HR 7363, the HOUSES Act of 2024, allows states and local governments to purchase federal land for housing development to address shortages. It requires that at least 85% of the land sold must be used for residential buildings, open space, green space, or community facilities (like schools or clinics), with a minimum density of 4 homes per acre. The bill also limits commercial use to 15% of the land (with exceptions for mixed-use developments) and mandates that infrastructure like roads, utilities, and transit hubs must be developed without hindrance. The Secretary of the Interior must prioritize housing projects for approval and finalize decisions within one year, with strict compliance requirements for local governments to maintain eligibility for federal funding.