CALIFORNIA — Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D‑CA) has introduced a new proposal in the U.S. House aimed at tackling the nation’s housing crisis by redirecting federal spending toward affordable housing initiatives. 

The bill, known as the Make Housing Affordable and Defend Democracy Act (H.R. 6390), was formally introduced on December 3, 2025. It has since been endorsed by the Congressional Progressive Caucus, which includes nearly 100 Democratic members of the U.S. House and Senate.

The bill would rescind roughly $175 billion in federal funding previously allocated to immigration enforcement and border infrastructure under the “One Big Beautiful Bill.”  

The funds would instead be reinvested into programs that improve housing affordability, according to the Progressive Caucus.

Among the key provisions outlined by supporters, the measure would:

• Establish a monthly renter tax credit for households spending more than 30 % of their income on rent.

• Provide significant down‑payment assistance — $25,000 for first‑time homebuyers and $50,000 for first‑generation buyers.

• Create an Affordable Housing Conversion Credit to incentivize converting vacant commercial buildings into affordable housing units.

• Launch a Starter Home Construction Credit to support development of new, entry‑level residences.

• Expand production of deeply affordable units by strengthening the Low‑Income Housing Tax Credit.

Bill remains in early stages

In addition to its housing measures, the legislation would amend the Internal Revenue Code to provide new tax credits related to expanding access to housing.

The bill has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee, among others, for review.

As of mid‑January 2026, the bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process with no scheduled committee votes.

RELATED: California revives Dream For All homebuyer program with up to $150,000 in assistance