4 Things In Minnesota's Housing Bill That Could Open Up More Homes

ST. PAUL, MN — Minnesota lawmakers are moving a housing bill that would put more money toward new development, homelessness prevention, and homebuyer assistance.

The proposals, which have bipartisan support, will not suddenly make Twin Cities homes cheaper. But it is one of the more serious housing bills moving at the Capitol this session.

Here are five things in it.

1. $100 million for housing infrastructure bonds

This is the biggest item in the bill.

The money would help finance housing development, including projects that might not move forward otherwise. The basic idea is to help get more housing built.

2. $40 million to help keep families housed

The bill includes a one-time $40 million appropriation for the Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program.

That money is aimed at helping families avoid eviction, stay in housing and keep temporary setbacks from turning into full-blown crises.

3. More help for first-time buyers

The package includes a one-time increase for homeownership education, counseling and training.

It is a smaller part of the bill, but it is one of the few pieces aimed directly at people trying to buy a home.

4. More money for workforce housing

The bill would also provide a one-time increase for the Greater Minnesota Workforce Housing Development Program.

That piece is aimed more at parts of the state where employers are struggling to attract workers because there is not enough housing.

Check out the full bill here.