Gallego Signals Support for Federal Land Housing Initiative

Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) recently signaled support for the Trump Administration's recent formation of a task force to address the possibility of opening federal lands to housing development, thereby solving the housing crisis.

Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced the joint task force's formation, saying, "America needs more affordable housing, and the federal government can make it happen by making federal land available to build affordable housing stock."

Sen. Gallego applauded the plan in a letter to Turner and Burgum, calling it "a partial solution to addressing the nation's housing supply crisis."

Additionally, he suggested means by which the plan "prioritizes environmental stewardship, respects tribal sovereignty, and involves meaningful engagement with local, state, and tribal communities to ensure housing developments meet their specific needs."

To this end, Sen. Gallego posed a series of questions about the initiative, asking who will sit on the task force, what scheduled meetings or deadlines currently exist, and whether or not the minutes from these meetings will be publicly available.

The Arizona Congressman further inquired about the methodology used to inventory public land.

"What specific criteria will be used to determine the suitability of federal lands for residential development?" Gallego asked, adding, "Will factors such as proximity to transportation, schools, and employment centers be considered in the decision-making process?"

Finally, he asked if private developers would be involved, how public hearings would be held to ensure the housing plans remained affordable, and how local communities could participate in them or make public comments.

"Addressing these questions will help ensure a clearer understanding of the Task Force's initiatives and assist policymakers in advocating for its objectives, including legislative action, if necessary," Gallego continued, finishing the letter by reaffirming his general support for the initiative, "I look forward to working together to increase access to quality, affordable housing in our communities."