Press Releases

Today, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) offered an amendment to help members of the armed forces and gold star recipients afford to stay in their homes after Republicans brought a bill to the floor that will terminate the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP), a critical lifeline to homeowners who are struggling to keep their homes. HAMP currently helps 30,000 families afford to keep their homes every month and 600,000 American families are still in their homes because of this effort. Larsen’s amendment would have preserved this program for active military and gold star families. 

“We can all agree that we owe our men and women in uniform a tremendous debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

 “While defending our country, servicemembers should not be afraid that their families will lose the roof over their heads.

“But that’s the very situation a Navy sailor found himself last year as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.7,000 miles from home in Afghanistan there was little he could do to help his spouse balance the stress of raising two children, work, and household expenses. To top it off their variable-rate mortgage was about to jump to almost $2,300 a month. This family was able to find relief in the Home Affordable Modification Program. They applied for a trial modification under HAMP and began making reduced payments.  After a few months their modification became permanent and reduced their monthly payment by almost $400.

“I am disappointed the House let partisan ideology get in the way of ensuring the men and women who fight and die in our wars are able to keep their homes.

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