One of the key pillars of the "American Dream" is being able to own your own home. However, homeownership feels out of reach for many people. That is why I have worked hard to ensure people can achieve the dream of homeownership.

A recent report from Forward Analytics, a Wisconsin-based research organization that provides non-partisan analysis of issues for policymakers, estimates that Wisconsin may need as many as 228,000 new housing units by 2030 to meet the current and future needs of the state. This estimate takes into account demographic changes happening across Wisconsin, while also looking into the future to ensure Wisconsin is competitive in attracting talent to our state.

The report shows that we are making good progress, but there is still more work to be done. One of the best ways to increase the availability and affordability of housing is to build more housing units. That is why, during the 2023 legislative session, we provided $525 million for the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) to create a series of revolving loan funds aimed at expanding access to housing, specifically for middle-class families. So far, WHEDA has awarded about $25 million to support the creation of more than 1,600 workforce housing units statewide.

Unfortunately, these programs have been underutilized because the level of financing and programmatic requirements did not make some potential developments possible. That is why this legislative session, we passed additional bipartisan legislation to fine-tune the programs and ensure our investments are used effectively. I am hopeful that these changes will increase program participation and lead to more housing in the 17th Senate District and across Wisconsin.

In addition, I know that many communities across the 17th Senate District are building new housing. From Cuba City to Mineral Point to Oregon, new housing is being built across southern and southwestern Wisconsin.

Building more housing that is affordable for working class families is one of the best things we can do for our communities. Creating more competition in the housing market brings down prices across a community, making it more affordable for people to put down roots. In addition to being better for those who live there, it makes it an easier sell to potential new residents who are looking for affordable housing.

Building housing helps out our school districts too. As I have mentioned many times, nearly every district is struggling with declining enrollment. Fewer students means a smaller school budget. Building quality, affordable housing is a great way to encourage families to move into our communities, which in turn helps out our local school district budgets.

I am proud of the work we have accomplished so far and I remain committed to ensuring Wisconsin is a great place to live, work, raise a family, and retire.