This past week, GFWAR members had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. to represent the voice of Fort Worth area REALTORS® on Capitol Hill. During the trip, our members met with Representatives Marc Veasey, Craig Goldman, and Roger Williams to advocate for legislation critical to housing affordability, accessibility, and equity.
With the leadership of our dedicated Federal Political Coordinators (FPCs)—J.R. Martinez (Rep. Veasey), Elizabeth McCoy (Rep. Goldman), and Joelene Slocum (Rep. Williams)—GFWAR members engaged in productive conversations about real estate priorities and the needs of our local market. These meetings were a vital step in strengthening relationships with lawmakers and ensuring they understand the impact of federal policy on our communities.
Our advocacy focused on the following key bills:
- More Homes on the Market Act (H.R. 1340)
Supports reducing the equity penalty to encourage long-term homeowners to sell. - Housing Supply Framework Act (H.R. 2840 / S. 1299)
Promotes the development of a national strategy to boost housing supply and lower costs by reducing barriers to new construction. - Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410)
Encourages adaptive reuse of underutilized commercial properties into residential or mixed-use housing, revitalizing communities. - Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act (H.R. 3526)
Expands the amount first-time homebuyers can withdraw penalty-free from IRAs for a down payment on a first home. - Fair and Equal Housing Act
Codifies protections for sexual orientation and gender identity under the Fair Housing Act, codifying the application of the Supreme Court’s Bostock v. Clayton County decision to the Fair Housing Act, to help ensure equal housing protections for all Americans.
GFWAR remains committed to advocating for policies that expand housing opportunities and support the success of REALTORS® and their clients. We are proud to have had such strong representation in Washington, and we thank our members and FPCs for their dedication and leadership.
