DEMS PUSH BUILDING CODES

Nine Democrats urged the Federal Housing Finance Agency on Thursday to require new homes with mortgages backed by government-sponsored enterprises to meet newly-finalized energy efficiency codes from the Housing and Urban Development and Agriculture Departments. The lawmakers, who lead the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, said the new codes — which currently apply to new affordable housing constructed by those agencies — would save homeowners money and make their homes more climate-resilient.

“Given the role of FHFA in overseeing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, your support in requiring these entities to meet these updated codes can drive significant positive change in the housing market,” they wrote, echoing calls from business and environmental groups. An FHFA spokesperson said in a statement that the agency had received the new letter and would respond appropriately.