Well, it looks like our U.S. senators are getting in on the housing affordability crisis.  Actually, this is a pretty pro-active approach – make federal land available for purchase by state and local governments to be used exclusively for housing.  There are some parameters on it to make it for “affordable” housing, however that winds up being defined.  A couple of clips from the news story:

The Utah Republican introduced legislation Friday to allow a state or local government to buy parcels of federal land at a reduced price to address housing supply and affordability in their areas. The proposal would require the property be used for housing, subject to a density requirement, and protects against development of expensive second homes.

The bill requires that at least 85% of the acquired land be used for residential housing and related community needs at a density not less than one home per quarter-acre. Community needs would include schools, churches, grocery stores, hospitals and health clinics. Also, no more than 15% of property could be used for commercial purposes.

Say what you will, but it’s at least an effort to try and address the problem.  Better than not doing anything!