PA House to Consider Housing Trust Fund Legislation

Legislation that would establish a Housing Trust Fund in Pennsylvania may be considered in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives by February 1. House Bill 60 would establish the Housing Trust for low income housing. The fund would be supported by a fee on real estate sales and used for low income housing. A percentage of the trust funds would be set aside to assure accessible housing for people with disabilities. Results of a poll conducted by Strategic Guidance Systems in November 2009 showed support for the housing trust fund.  The poll indicated that citizens in Pennsylvania want elected officials to address social problems such as housing. Respondents to the poll are worried about seniors being able to stay in their homes and young people being able to afford a home. Voters are also concerned about homelessness and people, , especially working people, having to spend too much for housing. The respondents value the job creation and economic power of housing. FMI: To read HB 60, see www.legis.state.pa.us.