Washington, July 13 -- Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz issued the following press release:

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Freedom to Build Act to lower housing costs and eliminate the "bureaucrat tax", the hidden cost per new build caused by regulatory delays and red tape.

The Freedom to Build Act directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish a voluntary "Freedom to Build" designation for localities nationwide. This initiative recognizes and rewards communities that make regulatory reforms. Certified localities will receive priority consideration for existing HUD housing grants. "Government overregulation has created a hidden tax on new home builds, putting the American dream of homeowne...