Trump Declines to Sign Housing Bill Amid Protest Over SAVE America Act

NewsWK — President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he will not sign a federal housing bill designed to reduce housing costs, despite its bipartisan passage in Congress. The legislation, known as the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, is set to become law at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, regardless of the president’s decision.

In a statement on his social media site, Trump expressed his protest against Congress for not advancing the SAVE America Act, a priority for him. He stated, “I will not sign the Housing Bill, which has been fully approved by Congress and sent to the White House, in PROTEST over the fact that the United States Senate is not capable of passing THE SAVE AMERICA ACT.” This act aims to impose photo ID requirements for voters and limit mail-in voting, among other provisions.

While the housing bill received overwhelming support, passing 85-5 in the Senate and 358-32 in the House, Trump’s refusal to sign stems from his opposition to the Senate’s inaction on the elections bill. Experts note that the current congressional recess does not qualify as an adjournment, meaning the housing bill will automatically become law in 10 days unless Trump vetoes it.

The housing legislation aims to streamline housing policy, making it easier for builders to construct new homes and for potential buyers to access federally backed loans. It also includes provisions to reduce regulatory hurdles and expand the use of federal housing funds, particularly for affordable housing initiatives.

Trump initially indicated support for the legislation, even planning a signing ceremony at the U.S. Capitol, which was later canceled. He now characterizes the housing measure as less significant compared to the SAVE America Act, which he claims is widely popular among Republicans.