The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“CELEBRATING NATIONAL HOMEOWNERSHIP MONTH” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the House of Representatives section on pages H5142 on June 26, 2017.
The Department is primarily focused on food nutrition, with assistance programs making up 80 percent of its budget. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department implements too many regulations and restrictions and impedes the economy.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
CELEBRATING NATIONAL HOMEOWNERSHIP MONTH
(Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, June is National Homeownership Month, and it is a time when we celebrate and recognize the many benefits of owning a home.
For generations of Americans, owning a home has been an essential element in achieving the American Dream. But since the Great Recession, we have seen homeownership rates drop to historic lows.
Young families often find themselves unable to save for a downpayment or to gain access to adequate credit. This is especially true for those in rural areas.
The United States Department of Agriculture places emphasis on helping rural Americans buy homes. USDA provides mortgage loan guarantees through partnerships with private sector lenders to help low- to moderate-income rural home buyers.
In 2016 alone, USDA worked with nearly 1,500 lenders to help 116,000 rural individuals and families buy homes. USDA has helped more than 4.1 million rural residents buy a home since the National Housing Act was passed 68 years ago.
Mr. Speaker, the benefits of homeownership have widespread benefits. Homeownership fortifies communities, creates jobs, and strengthens the local businesses that support our towns.
Thank you to USDA for your commitment to providing affordable housing for rural Americans. Happy National Homeownership Month.
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