2 weeks Ago By From staff reports
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.
S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga.
, helped introduce a bipartisan bill Wednesday to help Georgia’s first responders and teachers buy homes in the communities they serve. Ossoff and U.S.
Sen. Ashley Moody, R-Fla., introduced the bipartisan Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder (HELPER) Act of 2025 — which would establish a new home loan program under the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) for law enforcement, firefighters, medical first responders and teachers.
The HELPER Act would eliminate the upfront home purchase costs and the monthly mortgage insurance premium for those who serve our communities. Senators Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., and Bill Cassidy, R-La.
, co-sponsored the bill. “I’m working across the aisle to support Georgia’s teachers, first responders, and law enforcement officers by making homeownership more affordable for public servants who teach our kids and protect our families,” said Ossoff. The companion bill is being introduced in the House.
In May 2024, Ossoff held a press conference at the Henry County Police Department North Precinct in Stockbridge to raise awareness and urge the passage of the bill. “As chair of Henry County, I am proud to stand in support of Senator Jon Ossoff's bipartisan HELPER Act This legislation is a testament to the values we hold dear — compassion, community, and empowerment. By providing first responders, educators, and other public servants with the opportunity to achieve homeownership, the HELPER Act not only addresses the housing affordability crisis but also strengthens the very fabric of our communities,” said Henry County Chair Carlotta Harrell.
“These individuals dedicate their lives to serving and protecting us, and it is our duty to ensure they can live in the neighborhoods they serve. I urge my fellow leaders and citizens to join me in advocating for this critical piece of legislation. Together, we can make the American Dream more accessible for those who dedicate their lives to making our communities safer and stronger.
” Ossoff’s bipartisan HELPER Act is backed by the Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Firefighters, International Association of EMTs and Paramedics, and National Education Association. “This legislation will aid law enforcement officers who struggle to acquire resources to obtain affordable housing. The cost of housing inhibits law enforcement agencies when recruiting in many areas,” said Georgia Fraternal Order of Police President Michael Callahan.
“It has long been the position of the Georgia Fraternal Order of Police that law enforcement officers should be a part of their community, not apart from it. Ensuring first responders can reside in their area of responsibility is the cornerstone of community policing. We applaud our leaders who through bipartisanship can work together to make a difference in the lives of law enforcement officers.
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