Podcast: Challenges Ahead for Housing and Congress

On the latest episode of NAHB’s podcast, Housing Developments, CEO Jim Tobin and COO Paul Lopez highlight major issues impacting the residential construction industry — including immigration, gas bans and tariffs — and key upcoming events.

Top Housing Issues

Gas Bans

Michael Fazio, executive director of the New York State Builders Association, testified before Congress on the costly impact of energy mandates on housing and urged Congress to pass the Energy Choice Act.

“Gas bans … lower competition in the energy markets,” Tobin added. “There are just areas in the country where gas is a better fuel, and it's easier to deliver it. In many areas, electricity is better. But wholesale bans of one fuel or one energy source over another is never a good idea.”

Immigration Reform

Immigration enforcement actions are disrupting residential construction as fear of detainment, regardless of legal status, is leading to a lack of workers on jobsites. NAHB has resources available to members to ensure employers and employees know their rights, and is advocating for better solutions with the Trump administration.

“I'm a firm believer that we are a country of law and order, but we have to make sure we're doing it the right way as well,” Tobin stated. “From a housing perspective, especially with a brand-new law on the books that is designed to build more housing, we need the people to build more housing.”

Tariffs

President Trump imposed 50% tariffs on select Canadian goods, which were reciprocated by Canada. Although many of these tariffs are not directly related to the housing industry, they continue to fuel uncertainty in the market.

“I’d like to believe that cooler heads will prevail, and maybe we can get to, over the next couple of months, some sanity,” Tobin noted.

Key Industry Events

September is a busy month for NAHB as the Federation honors our Associate members during Associate Member Appreciation Month and opens registration for the 2027 International Builders’ Show (IBS), the premier event for the residential construction industry. Register this month for IBS 2027, Feb. 2-4 in Las Vegas, to take advantage of the best deals.

Tobin and Lopez also delve into issues and leadership challenges for each party. Stay tuned as Housing Developments looks ahead toward midterm elections.