Rep. McNally Introduces Legislation Authorizing the Creation of An Affordable Housing Tax Credit

COLUMBUS- State Representative Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) today provided sponsor testimony in the Economic and Workforce Development Committee on House Bill (HB) 3, legislation authorizing the creation of an affordable housing tax credit to spur development of modern housing units around the state.

“For our workforce to thrive, we need people to come here and stay here. Staying here requires housing, housing that is modern, accessible, and affordable,” said Rep. McNally during her sponsor testimony. “Housing is critical to building a healthy and prosperous future for Ohioans. HB 3 will help make that future possible.”

The bill is joint sponsored with State Representative Gail K. Pavliga (R-Portage County). HB 3 is a priority bill of both the Republican and Democratic Caucuses in the Ohio House of Representatives, and is expected to move quickly through the legislative process. Language for HB 3 is currently being finalized to resolve implementation issues raised during the bill's previous hearings as HB 560 in the 134th General Assembly. Once finalized, HB 3’s language will include an annual allocation total and the number of years of program eligibility.

“Most of the homes in Youngstown were built before 1960 and do not have the features seniors need to age in place. If we want someone to build that housing, which is desperately needed, we have to incentivize it. Otherwise, the people we are trying to help with that new housing won’t actually be able to afford to live there,” said Rep. McNally. “This cannot wait and I’m glad the Ohio House agrees and will move this forward quickly. Our region is among many throughout the state that truly need this new development, which is why I’m proud to play a part in bringing it to them.”