AAA Joins National Advocacy Effort to Support Pro-Housing Federal Policies

Representatives from the Austin Apartment Association (AAA) joined members of the National Apartment Association (NAA) from across the country in Washington, D.C., to advocate for key federal policies supporting the rental housing industry.

During their meetings on Capitol Hill, members focused on two major legislative priorities: the Respect State Housing Laws Act and pro-growth tax policy that encourages housing development and affordability.

Advocating for the Respect State Housing Laws Act

One major focus of discussion was the Respect State Housing Laws Act, a response to lingering issues caused by the federal CARES Act eviction provision. Originally enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the CARES Act mandated a 30-day notice period before filing for eviction due to nonpayment of rent. However, due to a drafting error, this requirement has remained in effect and continues to create legal conflicts—especially in states like Texas, where it clashes with long-standing state laws.

This federal provision only applies to HUD-subsidized properties, but it has caused confusion and added regulatory burdens—particularly for small property owners who play a vital role in providing affordable housing options. Texas’s housing ecosystem, made up largely of small business operators, has been especially impacted by this inconsistency between state and federal law.

Led by Congressman Barry Loudermilk and Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, the Respect State Housing Laws Act seeks to resolve this issue by removing the 30-day federal notice requirement and restoring state authority over eviction policies.

Supporting Smart Tax Policy to Boost Housing Supply

Members also met with lawmakers to advocate for tax policies that support rental housing development and operation. Key priorities included:

• Preserving key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, including:
• Reduced individual income tax rates
• 20% qualified business income deduction (Section 199A)
• Doubled estate tax exemption
• Expanding the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) to increase the supply of affordable housing
• Promoting adaptive reuse of underutilized commercial properties into multifamily housing
• Protecting against harmful tax proposals, such as limiting the deductibility of state and local taxes by pass-through entities, which would increase costs for housing providers

Looking Ahead

We are deeply grateful to the legislators who took the time to meet with our delegation and discuss these vital issues. Their willingness to listen and engage is a testament to the importance of collaborative policymaking.

As part of a national effort, the Austin Apartment Association remains committed to advocating for housing policies that support both providers and residents. Together with our partners at the NAA, we will continue to work toward a more equitable, sustainable, and accessible housing future for all.