The "Build Housing Package" introduced by Councilmember Robert C. White, Jr. aims to address the challenges of housing affordability and construction delays in Washington, D.C. This package includes four bills designed to streamline regulatory processes, reduce costs, and enhance the efficiency of housing development. The first bill, the "Understanding the Cost of Housing Regulations Act of 2026," seeks to establish a third-party cost review to analyze the cumulative impact of housing regulations on development costs and timelines. The second bill, the "Affordable Housing Tax Assessment Alignment Act of 2026," aims to ensure that affordable housing is assessed for tax purposes based on its legally restricted rents, rather than inflated market rates, by requiring the Department of Housing and Community Development to provide necessary data to the Office of Tax and Revenue.

The third bill, the "Pre-Approved Housing Plans Act of 2026," proposes a program for pre-approved housing plans to facilitate small-scale housing projects, reducing the need for repetitive design work and expediting the permitting process. Lastly, the "Risk-Based Third-Party Code Review Act of 2026" introduces a risk-based pathway for third-party plan reviewers, allowing them to certify compliance with construction codes, thereby reducing the burden on the Department of Buildings and expediting project approvals. Together, these reforms aim to create a more predictable and efficient housing development environment in the District, ultimately increasing the availability of affordable housing for residents.