Legislative Alert
WHEDA loan program modifications aim to boost housing development
Nathan Conrad, WRA Director of Grassroots Political Advocacy and Engagement
In 2023, Gov. Tony Evers signed several workforce and senior housing bills into law, backed by a historic $525 million investment to create revolving loan programs administered by the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA). These programs were developed with input from key stakeholders, including the WRA.
While this investment was a major step forward, implementation has fallen short. To date, only $16 million has been awarded, resulting in just 967 new housing units. With unused funds set to return to the state by January 1, 2031, reforms are urgently needed.
Legislation in play
Recently introduced legislation, SB 180/AB 194, proposes key changes to WHEDA’s housing loan programs to improve access to funding and address Wisconsin’s workforce and senior housing shortage.
Legislation status
The bill has undergone informational hearings in both chambers and also passed the Senate Committee on Insurance, Housing, Rural Issues and Forestry. As this magazine went to press, this bill was awaiting an executive session in the Assembly Committee on Housing and Real Estate.
