Trump Delays Housing Bill Approval, Demands Passage of Voter ID Measure

US President Donald Trump has cancelled the signing of a major bipartisan housing bill just hours before a planned ceremony, saying he will not approve it until Congress passes the SAVE America Act, a voter ID proposal requiring proof of citizenship for voting.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act had already passed both chambers of Congress and is aimed at lowering housing costs by increasing housing supply, reducing development barriers, and making homeownership more affordable.

Trump argued that lower interest rates, rather than new legislation, are the key to addressing housing affordability. His decision surprised lawmakers, including some Republicans, who had expected the bill to be signed into law.

Housing advocates describe the measure as the most significant federal housing reform effort in decades, targeting a national housing shortage estimated at more than four million homes. With housing affordability a major issue ahead of the midterm elections, supporters say the bill could provide much-needed relief for American families struggling with high home prices and mortgage costs.