Rep. Vargas Cosponsors “Rural Housing Preservation Act” to Protect Affordable Housing in Imperial and Brawley
Washington, DC (March 15, 2013) –Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) proudly cosponsored H.R. 858, the “Rural Housing Preservation Act”, introduced by Rep. Fortenberry (NE-1), which preserves the definition of “rural” until 2020 Census data is available, ensuring that over 900 rural communities in metro areas, like Imperial and Brawley, remain eligible for critical U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development funding.
“Rural communities often struggle with affordable housing and it is imperative that Congress not create barriers to funding,” said Rep. Vargas. The “Rural Housing Act”, which is supported by both Democrats and Republicans, will help protect vulnerable communities and keep them eligible to apply for much needed federal housing funds.”
The 2010 Census made numerous currently eligible communities, like Brawley and Imperial, ineligible for USDA Rural Development programs. As a result, low-income families in these communities will no longer have access to low-cost loans, grants, and other assistance, which is often their only source of federal housing funds.
“I am proud to cosponsor H.R. 858, which will help to address the challenge of affordable housing in rural communities across the nation and in my district,” stated Rep. Vargas. “The Rural Housing Preservation Act, will allow communities to continue to provide safe and affordable housing to their low-income residents.”
Vargas represents the California 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.