Maine coalition pushes for housing crisis reforms by 2026

Build Homes Build Community calls for legislative changes focused on innovation, streamlining, and funding

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A coalition of businesses, housing industry leaders, and affordable housing advocates in Maine, called Build Homes Build Community, is urging the state legislature to pass a package of reforms by 2026 to address the state's housing crisis. The group's 2026 legislative agenda includes support for bills focused on three key areas: innovating new housing production methods, streamlining the building and permitting process, and increasing state funding and investment for affordable housing.

Why it matters

Maine's housing shortage has become a major obstacle for employers trying to attract and retain workers, as well as for young people and seniors looking for affordable places to live. Without legislative action, the coalition warns that Maine's economy will continue to stagnate as the state struggles to build sufficient housing to meet demand.

The details

The coalition is pushing for bills that would reform building codes and regulations to accommodate innovative housing production methods like factory-built homes, streamline the permitting process to reduce delays and costs for developers, and secure bipartisan approval for increased state funding and a housing bond measure. They also want to extend Maine's Affordable Housing Tax Credit program, which is set to expire in 2028.

  • The Build Homes Build Community coalition launched in November 2025.
  • The group presented its 2026 legislative agenda to Maine lawmakers on February 20, 2026.

The players

Build Homes Build Community

A coalition of businesses, housing industry leaders, and affordable housing advocates in Maine, pushing for legislative reforms to address the state's housing crisis.

Patrick Woodcock

CEO and president of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, advocating for the coalition's agenda.

Shannon Richards

President of the Maine Real Estate and Development Association, emphasizing the need to streamline the building and permitting process.

Laura Mitchell

Executive Director of the Maine Affordable Housing Coalition, highlighting the importance of increased state investment.

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What they’re saying

“Their work presents new models and approaches that can speed up production, reduce costs and bring more attainable housing online.”

— Build Homes Build Community (newscentermaine.com)

“Time kills all deals. The longer it takes the more expensive it gets.”

— Shannon Richards, President, Maine Real Estate and Development Association (newscentermaine.com)

“Streamlining and innovation are essential, but they do not replace investment.”

— Laura Mitchell, Executive Director, Maine Affordable Housing Coalition (newscentermaine.com)

“This is one of those few issues that I don't care where you are on the political spectrum; it is affecting your district. I talk to Republicans, Democrats. They are all saying we need to have housing to grow our employers and provide options for a whole generation that is being left behind.”

— Patrick Woodcock, CEO and President, Maine State Chamber of Commerce (newscentermaine.com)

What’s next

The Maine legislature will consider the coalition's legislative agenda in the upcoming 2026 session, with the goal of passing reforms by the end of the year.

The takeaway

Maine's housing crisis has become a bipartisan issue, impacting the state's economy and quality of life for residents. This coalition's push for a comprehensive legislative solution shows the urgency of addressing the shortage of affordable and accessible housing across the state.