What were the most significant changes in US housing policies in 2021?

In 2021, there have been several changes in US housing policies that aim to address the ongoing housing crisis in the country. One of the most significant changes is the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) that provides $21.5 billion in emergency rental assistance to help renters and landlords. The funding will be used to cover past-due rent and utility bills, as well as future rent payments. This assistance is available to those who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and have experienced financial hardship.

Another change is the extension of the federal eviction moratorium until July 31, 2021, which was implemented to prevent renters from being evicted during the pandemic. In addition, the moratorium on foreclosures for federally backed mortgages has also been extended until June 30, 2021. The Biden administration has also proposed a $640 billion housing plan that aims to address issues such as homelessness, housing affordability, and racial inequality in housing.

Furthermore, there have been changes in zoning laws to increase the supply of affordable housing. States such as Oregon and California have passed laws to legalize duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes in single-family neighborhoods. These changes aim to increase the supply of affordable housing and reduce the cost of housing.