Housing Day at the Capitol is about more than conversations, it’s about results. And this year, Housing First Minnesota members saw firsthand how their voices can influence policy in real time.
On April 30, homebuilders, remodelers and trade partners from across the state gathered at the Minnesota State Capitol for a full day of advocacy, insight, and engagement with lawmakers.
Setting the Stage
The day began with a legislative panel featuring three housing champions: Senator Lindsey Port, Senator Jordan Rasmusson, and Representative Spencer Igo. Each shared their perspectives on the current legislative environment, the challenges facing housing in Minnesota, and opportunities to advance meaningful solutions.
Following the panel, Kristen Crossman, media relations manager, delivered a housing market update, grounding attendees in the latest data and trends shaping the industry-from affordability pressures to ongoing supply constraints.
Mark Foster, vice president of legislative & political affairs, then provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of play at the Capitol. His remarks helped connect the dots between policy proposals, political dynamics, and the real-world impact on housing-ensuring attendees were well-prepared for their meetings with legislators.
Advocacy in Action
Armed with that insight, Housing First members headed into meetings with lawmakers to discuss key issues affecting homebuilding, development, and homeownership.
One of the most consequential moments of the day centered on a provision in a homeowners association (HOA) bill moving through the House.
An amendment was introduced to remove a provision that would prohibit local governments from requiring the creation of an HOA as a condition for new development permits.
The amendment—offered by Rep. Tim O’Driscoll (R-Sartell)—was framed as a necessary change to gain broader support for the bill. He described the provision as a “stumbling block” to his support of the overall legislation.
After debate, the amendment was defeated on an 86-47 vote.
Why It Matters
This moment didn’t happen in a vacuum.
Housing First Minnesota has been working alongside legislators for years to address the issue of mandated homeowners associations- an often overlooked but impactful barrier in residential development. By defeating the O’Driscoll amendment, lawmakers preserved a provision that reflects that long-term advocacy.
The result is meaningful progress. Limiting when local governments can require unnecessary HOAs gives builders and developers more flexibility and, ultimately, helps create more attainable pathways to homeownership.
For future homebuyers, that can translate into simpler communities, fewer layers of governance, and potentially lower costs. It’s a policy shift that may seem technical-but carries real, lasting benefits.
“This is a great example of how consistent, thoughtful advocacy makes a difference,” said Mark Foster. “Our members have been working on this issue for years, and having those conversations face-to-face with legislators on Housing Day helped reinforce why this provision matters-not just for builders, but for future homeowners across Minnesota.”
The timing wasn’t coincidental. Housing First members had spent the day meeting with legislators sharing their experiences, explaining the implications of policies like this one, and reinforcing the importance of reducing unnecessary barriers to development.
Those conversations helped ensure lawmakers had context and clarity as they headed into votes later that day.
Showing Up Makes a Difference
Advocacy doesn’t always produce immediate results-but sometimes, it does. Housing Day 2026 was a clear example of how sustained engagement can shape outcomes. By showing up, speaking out, and building relationships over time, Housing First members helped advance a policy change that will positively impact housing development and homebuyers for years to come.
And that’s what Housing Day is all about.
Save the date for Housing Day 2027, which will take place on February 22.
