From the Desk of Your National Builder Delegate

I’m pleased to share updates on the work happening at the national level that directly impacts our industry.

Public Affairs Committee Update

Our advocacy and outreach continue to make waves—NAHB has achieved over 30,000 media mentions across print, online, and broadcast, alongside more than 100 press releases covering key issues like economic data, tariffs on building materials, immigration, labor, housing affordability, and housing policy. Looking ahead, the focus remains on housing policy, affordability, and key issues during the midterm elections.

NAHB is also redesigning its website, with a planned launch in Q1 2027. The new site will offer enhanced personalization, improved navigation, and better search functions, serving both members and the public more effectively.

Federal Government Affairs Committee – Advocacy

On the federal front, NAHB continues to push for policies that strengthen our industry. Current priorities include financing, resiliency, employment, energy choice, and deregulation. Key initiatives include:

• DIGNITY Act – Provides a pathway to permanent work authorization for undocumented workers.
• CONSTRUCTS Act – Prepares young adults for careers in construction and other trades.
• Energy Choice Act – Ensures that state and local governments cannot ban the use of natural gas in new homes.

Recently, the House passed the bipartisan Housing for the 21st Century Act, which aims to:

• Modernize local zoning frameworks
• Increase FHA’s multifamily statutory loan limits
• Speed up NEPA reviews and remove unnecessary duplicative processes
• Strengthen community banks to support housing financing

The next step is working with the Senate and White House to advance these critical housing initiatives. These efforts are essential to keeping our industry strong, growing, and able to meet the housing needs of our communities.

On a closing note, my role at SDHBA has changed and I will be handing the position of National Builder Delegate onto Dean Schulz from the Black Hills area. I’m eager to see Dean learn and grow in this role.

Peter Ronning
National Builder Delegate