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Core Issue: Housing
 
Core Issue: Housing
An estimated 12 million renter and homeowner households pay more than 50 percent of their annual incomes on housing. It is vital that the association play a role in helping to ensure that housing of all types is available at all income levels, and that programs are available to help homeowners achieve the dream of homeownership. The association must also contribute to the creation of revitalized communities while maintaining private property rights.
 
  • Land Banks House Bill 712, the Land Banks Authorities Act, provides for the creation of land banks for the conversion of vacant or tax-delinquent properties into productive use. PAR provided concerns with the legislation at a hearing in Philadelphia on May 28.
  • Landlord & Tenant Issues PAR is monitoring two bills which PAR has previously opposed. House Bill 453 requires landlords to allow medical access for those tenants with a “certified illness”. PAR created amendments last session for the legislation, and we have proceeded in discussions with the prime sponsor regarding our concerns. House Bill 650 provides for monitored security in dwelling premises having at least 26 units.
  • Statewide Housing Trust Fund PAR has worked with the Housing Alliance to garner support for a statewide housing trust fund, and participated in “Housing Matters Day” on May 5. Bob Hay represented PAR at the event to help release an economic impact study conducted by the Housing Alliance. 
  • Sprinkler Systems The 2009 International Residential Code (IRC) requires sprinklers in new one- and two-family residences as of January 1, 2011. The Pennsylvania Builders Association is opposed to mandatory sprinklers in new residential construction and is currently lobbying for an extension of the 2006 Uniform Construction Code. The Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS® supports a three-year extension of the 2006 Uniform Construction Code.
  • Urban Renewal On behalf of PAR, Bob Hay and Bill Festa provided testimony in front of the Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee on May 5. General comments regarding urban renewal were provided as well as an overview of the CORE: The Community Reinvestment Project pilot program in the City of Philadelphia.