07/18/08
Last Chance to Take Action on the National Housing Trust Fund
Help Build the Movement for Tenants Rights: Join the Tenants Union!
Washington State tenants have won important legal protections, but these rights don't go far enough. Help build the movement to protect and expand tenants rights and make the promise of safe, healthy, affordable housing a reality: 
Tenants Union advocates: Please take action to help pass the National Housing Trust Fund. See the below action forwarded from the National Low Income Housing Coalition (www.nlihc.org ):
National Housing Trust Fund Close To Finish Line
House Likely To Pass NHTF This Wednesday
On Tuesday, July 22, the Rules Committee of the US House of Representatives is expected to vote to allow the massive housing bill containing the Housing Trust Fund (HR 3221, The Housing and Economic Recovery Act) to proceed to the full House for a final vote. Final passage of HR 3221 by the House could come as early as Wednesday, July 23.
After the House Vote, What Happens Next?
At the earliest, HR 3221 can be presented to the Senate on Monday, July 28. Whenever the bill lands at the Senate, there will be a vote to decide whether to limit debate to 30 hours (“cloture”). If the Senate does vote “cloture”, then HR 3221 can not be voted on for 30 hours, meaning a final vote could come as soon as late Tuesday, July 29 or early Wednesday, July 30.
If the Senate approves HR 3221 in the same form as sent over by the House (as is expected), then it will go to the White House for the President’s signature.
What Advocates Can Still Do
Advocates are still urged to contact your representative in the House, stating that you want HR 3221 to pass.
You may use this toll free number, 1-877-210-5351, for the congressional switchboard and ask to be connected to the housing staffer in your representative’s office.
You can also click the Take Action link on the NLIHC’s website, then just enter your zip code to find the appropriate contact information.
Stay tuned for information on events as they unfold.
For Details of the Comprehensive Housing Bill
To get key features of this bill not pertaining to the NHTF, go the website of the National Low Income Housing Coalition: www.NLIHC.org
Please contact the Outreach Team, outreach@nlihc.org, or 202.662.1530, if you have any questions.
Thank you for your patience and support on this important issue.