REALTORS® Make Impact in D.C. and Tallahassee

Federal Action on Housing Supply

Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Housing for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 6644) by a 390 to 9 vote. The legislation was introduced by leaders from both parties to address the nation’s ongoing housing supply shortage.

With inventory still well below demand, this type of bipartisan progress is a meaningful step forward for the real estate industry and the communities it serves.

H.R. 6644 includes several targeted reforms aimed at increasing housing production and improving affordability. These include modernizing federal programs like HOME Investment Partnerships and Community Development Block Grants, streamlining environmental review processes, reducing regulatory barriers, and updating manufactured housing regulations to make building faster and more cost-effective.

While passage in the House is not the final step, it represents significant progress. NAR will continue advocating for this legislation as it moves through the Senate and for policies that expand housing access nationwide.

RASM REALTORS® Advocate in Tallahassee

In January, RASM REALTORS® joined members from across the state in Tallahassee for Florida REALTORS®’ 2026 Great American REALTOR® Days, held January 20 through 22 at the Florida State Capitol.

Over three days, RASM members met directly with Sarasota and Manatee legislative leaders to advocate on key issues impacting housing, property rights, and the real estate industry.

The Power of REALTOR® Advocacy

Following a meeting with Representative James Buchanan, RASM Key Contact Dave Clapp highlighted the influence of REALTOR® engagement.

“We just got done sitting in with Representative James Buchanan and there were probably 30 of us in a conference room and he has told me on numerous occasions when the REALTORS® come to town the legislators listen,” Clapp said.

Discussions focused on expanding housing opportunities, supporting programs like Hometown Heroes, strengthening My Safe Florida Home and My Safe Florida Condo, promoting long-term stability in the property insurance market, and protecting private property rights across Florida.

Why This Work Matters

RASM 2026 President and Key Contact for Representative Bill Conerly, David Crawford, emphasized the importance of staying involved.

“We know decisions are being made up here in Tallahassee every single day that are impacting private property rights in Florida, our clients, and our businesses. We want to make sure our legislator is armed with as much information and data from the right sources, which is us REALTORS®, so they can make informed decisions on legislation that impacts all of us,” Crawford said.

RASM Key Contact for Representative Fiona McFarland, Roger Piro, added that conversations also covered affordable housing, clean water, and insurance reform to help reduce property insurance costs.

Barry Grooms reinforced the association’s approach, stating, “Through our REALTOR® Association, we don’t just talk about protecting homeownership in Florida. We act.”