This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions and other government-related news related to residential and commercial construction as well as infrastructure and government initiatives and programs concerning housing and housing affordability. Once a week, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Dates: 2026-02-22 to 2026-02-28

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🇺🇸 Federal Government News
• 📜 Legislative Updates
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

Federal Government News

FERC Confirms Removal of Construction Restrictions During Rehearing Period

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission confirmed the removal of regulations limiting authorizations for natural gas facility construction during rehearing periods. Effective November 10, 2025, the Commission rescinded Section 157.23 and revised Section 153.4 to eliminate cross-references, referencing Executive Orders 14154 and 14156. FERC cited increased energy demand and the need for timely infrastructure development, arguing existing stakeholder protections sufficed. Petitioners raised concerns regarding stakeholder safeguards, but FERC stated its decision aligns with statutory duties under the Natural Gas Act and is intended to promote efficient infrastructure development.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Commerce Department Finalizes Concrete Masonry Regulation Amendments

The Department of Commerce issued a final rule amending regulations for concrete masonry research, education, and promotion under 15 CFR Part 1500. Effective February 27, 2026, the rule clarifies the purpose of the regulations, consolidates definitions, removes duplicative language, and revises Board member appointment and removal procedures. The action waives prior notice and public participation requirements due to its non-controversial nature, imposes no additional reporting burdens, and aligns with the Concrete Masonry Products Research, Education, and Promotion Act of 2018.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Trump Administration Reports Lower Mortgage Rates and Increased Housing Affordability

President Trump’s administration announced that mortgage rates have fallen to multi-year lows, improving homeownership affordability. The Housing Affordability Index is at its highest since March 2022, with apartment rents declining for six consecutive months. In 2025, 62% of homebuyers purchased homes at discounted prices. Actions include Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac purchasing $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities, restrictions on institutional investors acquiring single-family homes, and policy measures to expand homeownership. The administration removed the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule and continues efforts to reduce housing costs.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

Labor Department Proposes Revised Independent Contractor Rule Under FLSA

The Department of Labor proposed rescinding the 2024 rule on worker classification under the Fair Labor Standards Act, replacing it with a modified 2021 rule emphasizing the degree of control and opportunity for profit or loss as core factors. Supplementary factors include skill, permanence, and integration into production units. The Department estimates familiarization costs of $488.2 million and anticipates annual savings of $682.7 million, with implementation expected to increase independent contractor numbers. Conforming changes to MSPA and FMLA regulations are included, and public comments are requested.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

HUD Issues 30-Day Notice for Proposed HOME Investment Partnerships Data Collection

The Department of Housing and Urban Development requested comments on the proposed reinstatement of information collection for the HOME Investment Partnerships Program. Data collected via HUD’s Integrated Disbursement and Information System is used to track performance and compliance, generate annual reports, and assess statutory objectives. The notice details the scope, types of data, and requirements—including compliance with matching, eligible activities, and cost limits. Comments are due by March 25, 2026, via reginfo.gov.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Legislative Updates

Respect State Housing Laws Act Advances in House

Bill 1078, Respect State Housing Laws Act, has been placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 446. The legislation addresses housing and community development policies, with further action pending.

Sources: www.congress.gov

End Veteran Homelessness Act of 2025 Moves to Full Committee

Bill 1957, End Veteran Homelessness Act of 2025, was forwarded by subcommittee to the House Armed Forces and National Security Committee by voice vote. The bill targets veteran housing issues.

Sources: www.congress.gov

Fair Access to Co-ops for Veterans Act of 2025 Referred to Committee

Bill 1803, Fair Access to Co-ops for Veterans Act of 2025, was forwarded by subcommittee to full committee by voice vote. The legislation pertains to veterans' ability to access cooperative housing.

Sources: www.congress.gov

Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025 Receives House Hearing

Bill 1501, Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025, received hearings in subcommittee. The bill concerns energy and mining policy, touching industry supply chains relevant to construction materials.

Sources: www.congress.gov

What We're Reading This Week

• Canada’s Purpose-Built Rental Crisis: Why the Private Sector Must Lead the Way: Private sector roles in Canada’s rental housing shortage are explored.
• Mamdani Proposes NYC’s Biggest Housing Project in 50 Years. He Needs Trump’s Help.: New York’s largest housing proposal in decades awaits federal cooperation.
• E&E News: Interior claws back NEPA regs: The Interior Department is revising environmental assessment regulations.
• New Zealand Rolls Out the Welcome Mat for Wealthy American Home Buyers: New Zealand increases access to luxury property for American buyers.
• The Housing Market Is Tilting Back Toward Buyers: Housing market dynamics shift in favor of buyers amid mortgage rate changes.

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