New Democrats return to the Legislature with focus on housing, affordability

HALIFAX –Today marks the first day of the fall sitting of the Legislature. New Democrat MLAs will return to Province House focused on plans to address the housing crisis.

“We have an opportunity this fall to really make a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians across the province. Our Homes Within Reach plan will address housing affordability – from increasing supply, to protecting renters, to helping Nova Scotians save for a down payment on their first home,” said NSNDP Leader Claudia Chender. “The Houston government continues to make announcements about housing, but without clear outcomes for how things are actually getting better, people will remain stuck with fewer and fewer affordable options. New Democrats are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work to ensure homes within reach for all Nova Scotians.”

The Homes Within Reach plan was introduced in May and includes implementing real rent control, rather than the current inflexible rent cap that is often bypassed through fixed-term leases. The plan also includes deep investments in the rapid construction of housing, with a focus on non-market options.

In response to a recent NSNDP survey many Nova Scotians commented on the housing crisis.

“Make building non-profit housing a priority again so people aren't on the edge of homelessness paycheque to paycheque,” said Kelly Hancock, who responded to a recent NSNDP survey on priorities in the legislature this fall. “The market does not care about people and should not be the only mechanism by which housing supply is managed and allocated.”

“I want to see real rent control in this province, along with much more supply of truly affordable and accessible housing,” said fellow respondent Lois Miller.

New Democrat MLAs will table legislation today to create a renters’ tax credit and expand the Down Payment Assistance Program. The NSNDP will continue to fight for greater renter protections and housing affordability throughout the session.

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