Ortiz: Historic investment in housing will make a difference, but we also need policy change
In this opinion article, Arizona Rep. Analise Ortiz applauds allocations in the recently passed state budget that will invest in the Housing Trust Fund and the Homeless Shelters and Services Fund. However, she adds that common-sense reforms to city zoning laws also would speed up the development of new housing, particularly the types that are naturally more affordable, such as casitas, duplexes and manufactured homes. Ortiz also champions permanent supportive housing models in order to help those experiencing homelessness transition into self-sufficiency.