Olszewski-Led Bill to Lower Housing Costs Passes Congress, Blocked by Trump

June 24, 2026 Press Release (Washington, DC) – The U.S. House of Representatives yesterday passed legislation co-led by Maryland Congressman Johnny Olszewski to help convert vacant and blighted properties into attainable housing. The Revitalizing Empty Structures Into Desirable Environments (RESIDE) Act was included in the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a package broadly supported by lawmakers from both parties to increase the supply of affordable housing and help lower housing costs for working families. The legislation was expected to be signed into law today, but President Trump announced he would withhold his signature until Congress passes unrelated legislation. "The cost-of-living crisis begins and ends with housing — because if you don't have a safe roof over your head, little else matters," Congressman Olszewski said. "Repurposing vacant buildings helps meet the growing demand for attainable housing while breathing new life into communities. President Trump promised to lower costs on Day One of his administration, but by delaying the signing of this bipartisan bill into law, he's doing the exact opposite." The RESIDE Act authorizes a competitive pilot program within the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to help communities transform vacant and blighted structures into affordable homes. The legislation was co-led by Representatives Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Maria Salazar (FL-27), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01). Maryland faces a significant housing shortage, with the state's Department of Housing and Community Development estimating that approximately 100,000 additional units are needed to meet current demand. Without action, that shortfall is projected to grow to more than 590,000 units by 2045. ### Issues : Congress Economy