AAA joins National Apartment Association in D.C. to Advocate for Pro-Housing Legislation

Representatives from the Austin Apartment Association (AAA) recently joined members of the National Apartment Association (NAA) in Washington, D.C., to advocate for key federal policies supporting the rental housing industry.

The AAA delegation met with congressional offices representing the 11-county region it serves to discuss two pivotal pieces of legislation: the Respect State Housing Laws Act and the 21st Century Road to Housing Act. Meetings were held with the offices of Representatives August Pfluger, Lloyd Doggett, Michael McCaul, Michael Cloud, Chip Roy, and Greg Casar. 

Respect State Housing Laws Act 

A primary focus of the discussions was the Respect State Housing Laws Act, which addresses lingering issues stemming from the federal CARES Act.

Originally enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the CARES Act mandated a 30-day notice period before filing for eviction due to nonpayment of rent. Due to a drafting error, this requirement never expired. It continues to create legal conflicts, particularly in states like Texas, where it clashes with state laws. 

While this federal provision only applies to HUD-subsidized properties, it has created significant confusion and regulatory burdens. Especially after the passage of SB 38, it is even more unclear how each individual Justice is handling notice requirements, despite the explicit notice requirements laid out in state law.

Led by Congressman Barry Loudermilk and Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, the Respect State Housing Laws Act seeks to resolve this inconsistency by removing the federal 30-day notice requirement and restoring state authority over eviction policies.

21st Century Road to Housing Act

The AAA also addressed the 21st Century Road to Housing Act. While the NAA initially supported the bill, a troubling new provision threatens to stifle the production of Build-to-Rent (BTR) housing.

Market data confirms that increased supply and a variety of housing types drive rents down, making it more affordable for Americans to find homes. BTR communities have become a key part of that solution, with Austin currently ranking among the top 15 metros for BTR development. This growth is particularly evident in the surrounding metro area, including cities like Georgetown.

However, the Senate recently added Section 901 to the Act. This section limits the number of BTR units an individual or entity can own and requires that homes within a BTR community be sold to individual homebuyers within 7 to 10 years. While the Senate's intent was to limit institutional ownership and preserve opportunities for individual buyers, the provision inadvertently threatens a housing option that many young Central Texans prefer.

During their advocacy efforts, AAA representatives asked members of Congress to amend Section 901 by removing the ownership caps and the forced disposal of BTR rental units.

Moving Forward

Overall, the AAA’s messages were well received, further strengthening the relationship between the NAA, the AAA, and the Texas congressional delegation. The association looks forward to returning next year to continue its mission of advocating for a robust and sustainable rental housing industry.