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Chat witu Chic A Report from Washington September 20, 1985 By U.S. SENATOR CHIC HECHT Recently I introduced a resolution in the United States Senate proclaiming the week of October 6-13 as "National Housing Week" in America. I was pleased that 36 of my colleagues joined in with me in calling attention to the importance of the home building industry which I think is the single most critical sector of our nation's economy. I think it's safe to say that America cannot move ahead unless the housing industry is strong, vibrant and healthy. It's interesting to note that over the past several decades, the housing industry has been a good economic indicator. Five recessions identified by the National Bureau of Economic Research since 1960 were proceeded by downturns in housing starts and sales while each subsequent recovery was led by a pickup in housing activity. The general recovery from our most recent experience with an economic downturn was again led by dramatic improvement in housing activity. Over the past 50 years, the federal government has played a major role in advancing national housing policies in its partnership with the housing industry. It is my belief that we must continue to forge the combined commitment of the federal government with the strength and ingenuity of private enter-prise to bring about decent housing for all Americans. When I introduced this resolution on the floor of the United States Senate, one of those who spoke in support of the measure was New York Senator Amato. He said: "To own a home and live in decent housing strengthens the family, the community, and the nation. It gives all Americans a stake in America. The task of providing safe and decent housing, however, requires our continuing commitment to help Americans attain the dream of home-ownership. Tax in-centives and legislative initiatives to promote home ownership and the availability of affordable housing must continue. The federal government should take an active, advocacy role in housing development and rehabilita-tion; it should continue policies that help our citizenry fulfill this dream." I could not agree more. The promise of decent shelter has been an enduring dream for all Americans. We cannot let this dream die.