STATEMENT FROM HUD SECRETARY ALPHONSO JACKSON ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF FHA MODERNIZATION LEGISLATION

"Today's vote in the House brings us one step closer to getting a comprehensive FHA Modernization bill to the President's desk. While more work needs to be done, I'm grateful for the strong support that the President's proposals received in the House, and I urge the Senate to take up its version as soon as possible so we can help even more Americans keep their homes. I also appreciate the leadership and support of Barney Frank, Spencer Bachus, Maxine Waters, and Judy Biggert to reform FHA's mortgage insurance program.

The bipartisan reforms overwhelmingly passed by the House serve as a starting point to bring good news to families who need a safe, fair and affordable FHA alternative to the exotic subprime market. Now more than ever, Americans want financially sound mortgage options that won't turn the dream of homeownership into a nightmare. With the bill approved by the House today, we estimate FHA will be able to help hundreds of thousands of borrowers obtain an FHA-insured mortgage in 2008."

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HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development, and enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet and espanol.hud.gov. For more information about FHA products, please visit www.fha.gov.