LINCOLN- The pool of pandemic money that was awarded to the state activated many nonprofits dealing with affordable housing. This year they came to the body, but as a coalition, requesting a share of those funds. They hosted their first legislative rally this week that raised their collective voice in support of bills that together would direct more than $600 million to various housing programs.

“When it comes to housing affordability and justice, the stakes really can’t be overstated,” said Brianna Full, advocacy coordinator of Spark CDI. “The time for action is now.” The group did not stand alone. they were accompanied by Senators Briese and Vargas. Both have introduced legislation that pertains to housing this session.

The coalition believes that the state appears in a financial position to invest in housing and that coalition members will continue to lobby and testify in support of fund-seeking measures that include Legislative Bills 249, 504, 741, 629 and 801. The state budget director recently said the state has about $2 billion in excess funds to spend, on top of a projected $1.6 billion in cash reserves that could be tapped under certain circumstances.

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