Thousands of Kentuckians can't afford a place to live.

House Democrats today pushed for passage of House Bill 583, which they say addresses Kentucky's housing shortage and what can be done about it.

State Representative Joshua Watkins of Louisville discussed the bill's reach alongside his colleagues and housing advocates.

Kentucky is grappling with a significant housing shortage.

The Kentucky Housing Task Force reported a deficit of over 200,000 units.

By 2029.

This number is projected to grow by 40% to over 287,000 units.

So what does it take to turn the tide on the housing crisis and especially on the affordable housing crisis, to create the housing that Kentuckians need?

Today, three things land, money and political will and we are in luck because House Bill 583 incorporates all three of these key issues.

Representative Burke and I have filed HB 583, otherwise known as the Kentucky Housing Opportunity Act, and it's crafted to meet these challenges head on through a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that includes four major areas the first increasing housing supply.

Because we're committed to closing the housing gap by funding the construction and rehabilitation of homes.

This isn't about a temporary fix, but about creating long term solutions that will serve Kentuckians for generations.

Secondly, enhancing infrastructure and development support, because we recognize that high development costs can stifle growth.

And this act includes strategic investments to reduce these expenses by subsidizing the cost of essential infrastructure.

We make it more feasible for developers to build affordable housing without compromising on quality.

Thirdly, homeless prevention and housing stability.

The ACT also strengthens programs aimed at preventing homelessness and ensuring housing stability by providing rental assistance and other supportive services.

We help ensure that temporary setbacks do not lead to homelessness.

And fourth, expanding affordable housing options with emphasis on inclusivity.

The ACT promotes the development of diverse housing options to cater to the varied needs of our population.

This bill is for every Kentuckian who has ever felt the anxiety of an unaffordable rent increase or the despair of a housing search that comes up empty.

It's for our young people who are just starting out.

Our elderly who deserve peace in their retirement and our families striving to provide stability for their children.

It's about building a Kentucky where everyone has a fair shot at a safe and affordable home.

House Democrats are asking for more than $100 million to address Kentucky's affordable housing shortage.