The Yes in God's Backyard Act creates federal programs to help faith-based organizations, colleges and universities, and local governments develop affordable rental housing on their properties. The bill establishes a technical assistance program to provide guidance on converting unused property into affordable housing and a competitive grant program offering up to $50 million annually to states and local governments that remove zoning and regulatory barriers to such development. Priority is given to projects serving low-income households, people experiencing homelessness, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations, particularly in well-resourced neighborhoods. The legislation authorizes $25 million in 2026 and $10 million annually through 2031 for technical assistance, plus $50 million per year from 2026 through 2031 for challenge grants to eligible communities. This initiative aims to increase the supply of affordable rental housing by leveraging property and community connections of faith institutions and educational institutions.
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