House Approves Moran Plan To Increase Housing Options For Kansas Soldiers

Press Release

Congressman Jerry Moran today announced House passage of legislation that removes barriers for Kansas military families to access affordable housing. Moran and Senator Pat Roberts introduced the Military Access to Housing Act last year to enable more military families to qualify for affordable rental housing financed with tax credits and tax-exempt bonds through the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program.

"Action by the House to approve this provision is of utmost importance as thousands of military families continue moving into the Fort Riley area," Moran said. "Doors should not be closed when it comes to meeting the basic needs of our soldiers. As Fort Riley continues to grow, this means soldiers will have more safe and affordable housing options for their families."

The LIHTC program was created in 1986 to finance affordable housing in private developments. Current rules require the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to account for housing allowances to military men and women when determining if a family qualifies for low-income housing. This is inconsistent with guidelines for other recipients of government assistance and often eliminates military families from qualifying for low income housing. This legislation will remove the basic housing allowance from the formula for determining eligibility for low income housing. It will ensure the housing allowance does not count against servicemen and women as they apply for housing.

"This is wonderful news," Mark Edwards, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army and longtime Junction City resident, said. "If this becomes law, soldiers and their families living off Post will have more opportunities to find affordable housing. I appreciate Congressman Moran's leadership and ongoing efforts in Congress to secure this important legislation."

Moran and Roberts have been working with Junction City and Fort Riley officials on this legislation. They originally introduced the bill in March 2007 and have been working through obstacles in Congress to see through its passage.

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