Housing

Place to Call Home Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

Place to Call Home Act - Amends and reauthorizes the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act. Amends part B (Child and Family Services) of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) to increase funding for the safe and stable families program. Amends the Public Health Service Act with respect to substance abuse prevention and the treatment performance partnership block grant program. Amends SSA title IV part E (Federal Payments for Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) with respect to the curtailment of involuntary separation of children from their families. Amends the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to prohibit the involuntary separation of youth from their families. Provides for: (1) expanded eligibility for foster care and adoption assistance; (2) kinship guardianship assistance payments; (3) eligibility for foster care maintenance payments and adoption assistance payments through age 20; and (4) youth access to the child welfare system. Runaway and Homeless Youth Act Reauthorization of 2008 - Reauthorizes the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a national homeless youth awareness campaign. Revises requirements for the use of funds under the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program. Directs the Attorney General to establish a Youth Offender Reentry Grants program. Amends the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act to provide for transitional housing assistance for youth victims of commercial sexual exploitation. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to make qualified homeless youth a targeted group of the work opportunity credit. Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 with respect to unaccompanied youth access to workforce investment activities. Amends the Public Health Service Act with respect to the prioritization of services for runaway, homeless, and street youth. Provides for enhanced youth access to medical assistance under SSA title XIX (Medicaid). Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act with respect to the access of homeless children and youths to elementary and secondary education, including grants to increase student attendance. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 with respect to financial assistance for disconnected students and continued access to student housing for homeless youth. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide for section 8 rental assistance (housing choice vouchers) for homeless youth. Amends SSA title IV (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF) with regard to young family concerns. Outlines requirements for custody, release, family reunification, and detention of unaccompanied immigrant youth, including: (1) access to child advocates and counsel; and (2) children's asylum claims. Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 with respect to the deinstitutionalization of status offenders.

Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act of 2007 - Amends the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 to set the environmental intervention blood lead level for a confirmed concentration of lead in whole blood as equal to or greater than ten micrograms of lead per deciliter for a single test, for purposes of provisions concerning lead-based paint hazards in housing. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to amend relevant regulations to comply with this Act within 90 days.

Small Community Visioning Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

Small Community Visioning Improvement Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to eligible recipients for small community visioning processes to: (1) help small communities address pressing local needs; (2) facilitate coordination between small communities, land-grant and other universities, and design professionals; (3) encourage public-private partnerships; and (4) develop design projects that integrate physical planning and design techniques with sustainable community action.

National Homelessness Task Force Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

National Homelessness Task Force Act of 2007 - Establishes in the legislative branch a National Homelessness Task Force to: (1) analyze reports by federal, state, and local agencies and academic institutions relating to homelessness; (2) evaluate the effectiveness of federal programs addressing homelessness, particularly their interaction with state and local entities which also address homelessness; (3) analyze options and make recommendations to alleviate the causes and effects of such homelessness; and (4) conduct related research and develop methods to improve, federal, state, and local agency coordination.

National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2007 - Establishes an independent National Infrastructure Bank to: (1) designate qualified transit, public housing, water, highway, bridge, or road infrastructure projects for loans, loan guarantees, and other financial assistance; and (2) issue general purpose and project-based infrastructure bonds exempt from state and local taxation.

To amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to ensure that certain tenants are able to return to affordable housing after a major disaster.

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to authorize the President to provide assistance to a person who owns or operates a rental dwelling unit damaged or destroyed by a major disaster for that unit's repair, restoration, reconstruction, or replacement if: (1) before the disaster the unit was made available for occupancy only by low- or moderate-income tenants; (2) the person will continue, for a specified minimum period, to make available rental dwelling units for occupancy only by such tenants; and (3) the person has applied for a disaster loan under the Small Business Act and either has been determined to be ineligible for such a loan or has obtained such a loan in the maximum amount for which the Small Business Administration (SBA) determines the person is eligible.

Recognizing the community development block grant program of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and its role as the Nation's largest and most visible source of financial assistance to support State- and local government-directed neighborhood revitalization, housing rehabilitation, and economic development activities.

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

Supports the goals of the community development block grant (CDBG) program of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Recognizes the importance of the CDBG program in reducing poverty and strengthening communities in the United States. Urges states and entitlement communities to review their allocations of CDBG funds to ensure that special emphasis is placed on using such funds to eliminate poverty.

Kids in Disasters Well-being, Safety, and Health Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007

Addressing the Disaster Needs of Children Act of 2007 - Establishes in the legislative branch the National Commission on Children and Disasters, which shall: (1) assess facts and causes relating to the needs of children before, during, and after all hazards, disasters, and emergencies, including child health and welfare, housing, and juvenile justice needs and emergency mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities; (2) evaluate relevant laws and past events regarding the mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, coordination, and service delivery policies of federal, state, and local governments and nongovernmental entities relative to addressing such needs; and (3) report to the President and Congress. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a National Resource Center on Children and Disasters, which shall: (1) establish a clearinghouse for information and resources on issues relating to such needs; and (2) develop and maintain a website and related systems for disseminating information on such issues. Directs the Secretary to: (1) collaborate with any executive department and specified parties responsible for policies and regulations relevant to such needs; and (2) enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Secretaries of Homeland Security, Education, Housing and Urban Development, and Transportation and the Attorney General to collaborate on the functions of the Center.

Homes for Heroes Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007

Homes for Heroes Act of 2007 - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) a Special Assistant for Veterans Affairs to: (1) ensure veteran access to HUD housing and homeless assistance programs; (2) coordinate all HUD programs and activities relating to veterans; and (3) serve as a HUD liaison with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Directs the HUD Secretary to provide assistance to private nonprofit organizations and consumer cooperatives to expand the supply of supportive housing for very low-income veteran families (that is, families with incomes not exceeding 50% of the area median income). Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to: (1) make housing rental vouchers available to homeless veterans; and (2) include veterans in public housing planning. Excludes veterans' benefits from income for purposes of HUD assisted housing rental determinations. Requires the Secretary to: (1) make grants to nonprofit entities for technical assistance in sponsoring HUD housing projects for veterans; and (2) report annually to specified congressional committees and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on HUD activities relating to veterans.

Alaska Native Self-Governance in Housing Demonstration Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007

Alaska Native Self-Governance in Housing Demonstration Program Act - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish and implement an Alaska Native Housing Assistance Demonstration Program according to the provisions of this Act.

Bruce Vento Ban Asbestos and Prevent Mesothelioma Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007

Bruce Vento Ban Asbestos and Prevent Mesothelioma Act of 2007 - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to require the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to conduct studies and report on the health effects of non-asbestiform minerals and elongated mineral particles. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a plan to: (1) increase awareness of the dangers posed by asbestos-containing materials and products and contaminants in homes and workplaces and by asbestos-related diseases; (2) provide information to, and encourage participation in research and treatment endeavors by, asbestos-related disease patients and their families and front-line health care providers; and (3) encourage health care providers and researchers to provide to patients and their families information relating to research, diagnostic, and clinical treatments relating to asbestos. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations that prohibit the importing, manufacturing, processing, or distributing of asbestos-containing materials, subject to limited exemption upon petition and specified exemptions sought by the Department of Defense (DOD) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). States that such prohibitions do not apply to specified diaphragm electrolysis installations. Requires the disposal of asbestos-containing materials within two years. Exempts products that are no longer in the stream of commerce or that are in the possession of an end user. Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and coordinate research programs on diseases caused by asbestos exposure, particularly mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural injuries; (2) provide for establishment of a national clearinghouse for data and specimens relating to asbestos-related diseases; (3) require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish an asbestos-related disease research and treatment network; and (4) direct the Secretary to support research on mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases that is directly relevant to the health of the Armed Forces.

National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2007 - Establishes an independent National Infrastructure Bank to: (1) designate qualified transit, public housing, water, highway, bridge, or road infrastructure projects for loans, loan guarantees, and other financial assistance; and (2) issue general purpose and project-based infrastructure bonds exempt from state and local taxation.

Housing Assistance Authorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Housing Assistance Authorization Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide financial assistance to the Housing Assistance Council to develop the ability and capacity of community-based housing development organizations to undertake community development and affordable housing projects and programs in rural areas. Authorizes the Secretary also to make a grant to the Raza Development Fund to provide technical and financial assistance to local nonprofit organizations to undertake similar projects and programs serving low- and moderate-income households, particularly through organizations in neighborhoods with substantial populations of income-disadvantaged households of Hispanic origin. Authorizes the Secretary to make a grant to the Housing Partnership Network to create, sustain, and improve access to affordable housing and community facilities benefiting very low-, low- and moderate-income households and communities.

Mortgage Broker Transparency and Accountability Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Mortgage Broker Transparency and Accountability Act of 2007 – Amends the Truth in Lending Act to establish mandatory responsibilities, duties, and disclosures governing mortgage brokers. Deems any mortgage broker to have a statutory agency relationship with the consumer subject to all requirements under state or federal law. Sets forth disclosure requirements, including disclosure of: (1) the risks and benefits of each home mortgage loan product; (2) possible payment increases at the time of any resetting of rate; (3) the extent of any prepayment penalties and balloon payments; and (4) the consumer's responsibilities to pay taxes and insurance with respect to such product. Requires mortgage brokers to maintain a bond that inures, first, to the benefit of any consumer who has any claim against the mortgage broker under this Act. Prohibits: (1) mortgage brokers from steering a consumer to a higher-cost mortgage than one for which the consumer would otherwise qualify; and (2) waiver by a consumer of the requirements imposed upon a mortgage broker under this Act. Requires disclosure of specified affiliations on the part of persons involved in the home mortgage loan process.

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2007 - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to require the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to conduct a study that: (1) describes the science concerning the disease mechanisms and health effects of exposure to asbestos and other biopersistent durable fibers and methods for measuring and analyzing asbestos; (2) describes labeling practices relating to asbestos-containing material; and (3) recommends future asbestos-related disease research and exposure assessment practice needs. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations that prohibit the importing, manufacturing, processing, or distributing of asbestos-containing products, subject to limited exemption upon petition and specified exemptions sought by the Department of Defense (DOD) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Requires the disposal of asbestos-containing products within two years. Exempts products that are no longer in the stream of commerce or that are in the possession of an end user. Requires the Administrator to establish a plan to: (1) increase awareness of the dangers posed by asbestos-containing products and contaminants in homes and workplaces and by asbestos-related diseases; (2) provide information to, and encourage participation in research and treatment endeavors by, asbestos-related disease patients and their families and front-line health care providers; and (3) encourage health care providers and researchers to provide to patients and their families information relating to research, diagnostic, and clinical treatments relating to asbestos. Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and coordinate research programs on diseases caused by asbestos exposure, particularly mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural injuries; (2) provide for establishment of a national clearinghouse for data and specimens relating to asbestos-related diseases; (3) require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish an asbestos-related disease research and treatment network; and (4) direct the Secretary to support research on mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases that is directly relevant to the health of the Armed Forces.

Earning and Living Opportunities Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Earning and Living Opportunities Act - Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to set forth as a condition of federal housing and community development assistance that: (1) a public or Indian housing agency or contractor shall require that at least 20% of employee hours be performed by low- or very low-income persons; and (2) a recipient of assistance for housing rehabilitation, construction, or other public construction projects and their contractors shall require that at least 20% of new employee hours be performed by low- or very low-income persons. Directs the Secretary to require a public or Indian housing agency and other recipients of federal housing and community development assistance to: (1) establish a section 3 committee of interested parties to oversee all aspects of compliance with section 3 of such Act; (2) advertise training and employment opportunities generated by development assistance; and (3) maintain a registry of eligible low- and very low-income persons who express interest in those opportunities. (Section 3 declares the policy of the Congress to ensure that the employment and other economic opportunities generated by federal financial assistance for housing and community development programs shall, to the greatest extent feasible, be directed toward low- and very low-income persons, particularly those who are recipients of government assistance for housing.) Prescribes requirements for: (1) contractor compliance and job training; and (2) agency recruitment and referral. Establishes fines for noncompliance.

A resolution recognizing the heroic efforts of firefighters to contain numerous wildfires throughout the Western United States.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Recognizes the heroic efforts of firefighters to contain wildfires and protect lives, homes, and rural economies throughout the Western United States.

Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to revise provisions that set energy standards, including standards for specified appliances, boilers, motors, and external power supplies. Provides procedures to amend or make standards. Sets forth provisions concerning lighting efficiency. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to require the Secretary of Energy to support updating national model building energy codes and standards and to establish standards for energy efficiency in manufactured housing. Authorizes: (1) funding for weatherization assistance for low-income persons for FY2008-FY2012; and (2) the Secretary to initiate an Alternative Delivery System Pilot Project to examine options for decreasing energy consumption associated with heating and cooling. Requires the Secretary to establish an Office of High-Performance Green Buildings (OHPGB) within the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and to appoint its Director. Includes as duties of the Director: (1) establishing green practices for federal facilities; (2) developing a strategy to reduce commercial building energy use; and (3) establishing a clearinghouse. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to require federal agencies to designate energy managers to carry out energy and water evaluations of covered facilities. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue scorecards for federal energy management activities. Requires the OHPGB Director to establish demonstration projects concerning green building initiatives in federal facilities and universities. Requires the Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to initiate an information program about energy efficiency for data centers. Amends the Energy Conservation and Policy Act to require the Administrator to establish: (1) a Recoverable Waste-Energy Inventory Program that includes a survey of industrial and commercial combustion sources; and (2) a Registry of Recoverable Waste-energy Sources. Establishes a Waste Energy Recovery Incentive Grant Program within EPA. Redesignates the Department of Energy's (DOE's) Combined Heat and Power Application Centers as Clean Energy Application Centers and reallocates the administration of such Centers to DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Requires the Secretary to make grants for specified Regional Clean Energy Application Centers. Sustainable Energy Institutional Infrastructure Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary to help institutional entities with sustainable energy infrastructure through technical assistance and a Sustainable Institutions Revolving Fund. Authorizes funding for state energy conservation programs for FY2007-FY2012. Requires the Assistant Secretary of Energy for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy to establish an advisory committee to give DOE recommendations on energy efficiency finance issues. Requires the Secretary to establish an Energy Efficiency Block Grant Program for grants to local governments and states and a technical assistance program to help them with energy efficiency programs. Requires the Director of DOE's Office of Science to make green buildings retrofit loan guarantees for specified renovation projects.

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita Recovery Facilitation Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita Recovery Facilitation Act of 2007 - Directs the President to increase the amount of federal in-lieu contributions under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act for covered hurricane damages (damages suffered in Louisiana and Mississippi as a result of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita) to 90% of the cost of repairing any state or local government controlled property that will be replaced instead of repaired. Makes Louisiana, Mississippi, and local governments in such states eligible to participate in the pilot program under the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2007 that would increase the federal share of debris removal and financial incentives to expedite recovery project completion. Authorizes and encourages the President to use alternate dispute resolution procedures for appeals of decisions made under the Stafford Act regarding the award, denial, or amount of assistance to specified parties for covered hurricane damages. Authorizes the President, subject to specified limitations, to: (1) provide assistance under the Stafford Act for the re-interment of human remains at a privately-owned for-profit or nonprofit cemetery; (2) use a simplified procedure under that Act, if requested by specified parties, for a project for which the federal estimate of the cost is less than $100,000; (3) provide temporary housing units to state and local governments and private nonprofit entities for volunteers assisting in the recovery; and (4) make contributions to Louisiana for costs incurred with respect to public facilities used to host public events.

To require the Secretary of the Treasury to modify regulations to provide that certain Federal subsidies shall not be considered a grant made with respect to a building or its operation for purposes of the low-income housing tax credit.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to modify certain Treasury Regulations to provide that none of the following shall be considered a grant made with respect to a building or its operation for purposes of the required reduction of eligible basis by grants received under the low-income housing tax credit: (1) specified rental assistance under the Housing Act of 1949, Housing Act of 1959, and the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act; (2) loan guarantees for multifamily rental housing in rural area under the Housing Act of 1949; (3) periodic interest reduction payments on behalf of owner of rental or cooperative housing project for low-income families under the National Housing Act; (4) modernization, operating, and rental assistance under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996; (5) certain assistance under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act for grantees following a current housing affordability strategy or an approved comprehensive homeless assistance plan; (6) tenant-based rental assistance under the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act; (7) assistance under the AIDS Housing Opportunity Act; (8) per diem payments for furnishing services to homeless veterans; (9) rent supplements under the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965; (10) rural housing voucher program assistance under the Housing Act of 1949; and (11) any other ongoing payment similar to any of these payments and designed to reduce cash flow needs from rent to enable the property to be rented to low-income tenants.

A bill to allow for expanded uses of funding allocated to Louisiana under the hazard mitigation program while preserving the goals of the program to reduce future damage from disasters through mitigation.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2007

Prohibits the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from barring the use by Louisiana under its Road Home Program of specified amounts provided under FEMA's hazard mitigation grant program because of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita based upon the existence of a Program requirement that: (1) limits the amount made available to an eligible homeowner who does not agree to remain an owner and occupant of a home in Louisiana; or (2) waives the applicability of such limitation for homeowners who are elderly or senior citizens. Directs the Administrator to implement mechanisms to simplify the expedited distribution of such funds, including: (1) creating a programmatic cost-benefit analysis to provide a means of conducting cost-benefit analysis by project type and geographic factors rather than on a structure-by-structure basis; and (2) developing a streamlined environmental review process to significantly speed the approval of project applications. Requires the President to waive requirements regarding minimum project criteria under the Hazard Mitigation Program Grant and regarding the payment of claims or specify alternative requirements if requested by Louisiana to facilitate the timely use of funds or a guarantee provided under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. Prohibits the President from waiving any requirement relating to fair housing, nondiscrimination, labor standards, or the environment.

Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2007

New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act - Incorporates various legislative initiatives for energy conservation, independence, and security. Green Jobs Act of 2007 - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to direct the Secretary of Labor to: (1) establish an energy efficiency and renewable energy worker training program; (2) collect and analyze labor market data to track workforce trends resulting from energy-related initiatives under this Act; and (3) award National Energy Training Partnerships Grants to community based nonprofit organizations to carry out training programs that lead to economic self-sufficiency and develop an energy efficiency and renewable energy industries workforce. International Climate Cooperation Re-engagement Act of 2007 - Establishes in the Department of State an Office of Global Climate Change to be headed by an Ambassador-at-large with the primary responsibility of advancing U.S. goals for reducing global greenhouse emissions and for addressing the challenges posed by global climate change. Requires: (1) the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to support policies and programs in developing countries that promote clean and efficient energy technologies; (2) the Secretary of Commerce to direct the United States and Foreign Commercial Service to promote U.S. exports in clean and efficient energy technologies and to direct the International Trade Administration (ITA) to encourage private sector trade and investment in clean and efficient energy technologies; (3) the Director of the Trade and Development Agency to fund projects for using clean and efficient energy technologies; and (4) the President to provide assistance to the Interagency Working Group to support a clean energy technology exports initiative. Authorizes the Secretary of State to establish a global climate change exchange program. Establishes the International Clean Energy Foundation to promote projects outside the United States for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to work with foreign governments and private entities to address climate change issues. Small Energy Efficient Businesses Act - Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to: (1) authorize the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide assistance to state development companies for projects that reduce energy consumption by at least 10% and generate renewable resources; (2) authorize small business investment companies to issue Energy Saving debentures; and (3) require the SBA Administrator to establish a Renewable Fuel Capital Investment Program. Amends the Small Business Act to: (1) direct the SBA Administrator to make small business loans to purchase energy efficient equipment or fixtures; (2) authorize a small business development center to apply for an additional grant to carry out a small business sustainability initiative project; and (3) direct the SBA Administrator to develop and coordinate a program for small business education on energy efficiency. Establishes: (1) the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) within the Department of Energy (DOE) to overcome the long-term and high-risk technological barriers in the development of energy technologies; and (2) the Energy Transformation Acceleration Fund to fund energy technologies research. Marine Renewable Energy Research and Development Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) support programs to expand the use of marine renewable energy production; and (2) award grants to institutions of higher education to establish one or more National Marine Renewable Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Centers. Advanced Geothermal Energy Research and Development Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) support programs to expand the use of geothermal energy production; (2) extend the DOE's GeoPowering the West program throughout the entire United States; and (3) award grants to institutions of higher education (or consortia thereof) to establish two Centers for Geothermal Technology Transfer. Solar Energy Research and Advancement Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish: (1) a research and development program on thermal energy storage technologies for concentrating solar power; (2) a grant program for solar industry workforce training and internships; (3) a research and development program for direct solar light pipe technology; (4) a solar air conditioning research and development program; and (5) a grant program to states to demonstrate advanced photovoltaic technology. Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) establish a technology transfer center for information on research, development, and commercial application of technologies related to biofuels, biogas, and biorefineries: (2) award grants for biofuel production research and development in states with low rates of ethanol and cellulosic biomass ethanol production; and (3) conduct studies on increasing biodiesel production and consumption of ethanol-blending gasoline. Department of Energy Carbon Capture and Storage Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to direct the Secretary of Energy to: (1) carry out fundamental science and engineering research to develop and document new approaches to capture and store carbon dioxide; (2) ensure that fundamental research is appropriately applied to energy technology development activities and the field testing of carbon sequestration activities; (3) promote regional carbon sequestration partnerships to conduct geologic sequestration tests involving carbon dioxide in a variety of geological settings; and (4) conduct at least seven initial large-volume sequestration tests for geological containment of carbon dioxide. Global Change Research and Data Management Act of 2007 - Directs the President to: (1) establish an interagency committee to ensure cooperation and coordination of federal research activities pertaining to processes of global change; (2) establish an interagency United States Global Change Research Program to improve understanding of global change; (3) develop a National Global Change Research and Assessment Plan to implement the Program, including recommendations for global change research; (4) establish a Global Change Research Information Exchange; and (5) establish an interagency climate and other global change data management working group. Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to contract for a study of the potential impacts of climate change on patterns of hurricane and typhoon development. Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000 - Expands and extends agricultural-based energy programs established by the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 through FY2012, including programs for biofuels production, biorefineries, cellulosic biomass feedstocks and production, and forest bioenergy research. Carbon-Neutral Government Act of 2007 - Requires: (1) federal agencies to annually inventory and report their greenhouse gas emissions for the preceding fiscal year and to reduce net emissions to zero by FY2050: (2) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate annual greenhouse gas emission targets for FY2010-FY2050; (3) federal agencies to develop plans and publicly report progress for meeting emission targets; (4) federal agencies to purchase low greenhouse gas emitting vehicles; and (5) new federal buildings to be designed to reduce fossil-fuel generated power consumption and meet green buildings standards. Energy Policy Reform and Revitalization Act of 2007 - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act: (1) repeal the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Permit Processing Improvement Fund; and (2) extend deadlines for consideration of applications for permits for oil and gas drilling on federal lands. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to require the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) establish a cost recovery fee for applications for a permit to drill for oil and gas on federal lands; (2) develop a strategy for oil shale and tar sands leasing and development; and (3) modify best management practices guidelines for oil and gas development on federal lands. Federal Consistency Appeals Decision Refinement Act - Amends the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to increase from 160 days to 200 days the amount of time allotted to the Secretary of Commerce to compile a record of decision (ROD) used in an appeal of state consistency with federal coastal zone management programs. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to conduct no less than 550 audits of oil and gas leases on federal lands by FY2009. Establishes a Wind Turbine Guidelines Advisory Committee to study impacts on wildlife and their habitats related to land-based wind energy facilities. Directs the Secretary of Energy to conduct an analysis of the existing capacity of regional transmission systems in the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. Amends the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to direct the Secretary of the Interior to make grants to states for surveys of federal and state coastal waters. Establishes pilot programs for the development of strategic solar reserves and for biomass activities on federal lands. National Carbon Dioxide Storage Capacity Assessment Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) conduct a national assessment of the geological storage capacity for carbon dioxide; and (2) establish a National Resources Management Council on Climate Change to address the impact of climate change on federal lands, the ocean environment, and the federal water infrastructure. Global Warming Wildlife Survival Act - Requires the Secretary of Energy to promulgate a national strategy for assisting wildlife populations and their habitats in adapting to the impacts of global warming. Establishes a science advisory board to assist the Secretary and a National Global Warming and Wildlife Science Center within the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Establishes a state and tribal wildlife grants program. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to promulgate a national strategy to support state and federal agency efforts to mitigate the impacts on ocean and coastal ecosystems from global warming. National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2007 - Establishes a National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System to support national defense, marine commerce, energy production and other activities and to promote greater public awareness and stewardship of the Nation's ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources. Royalty Relief for American Consumers Act of 2007 - Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to agree to any lessee request to amend any lease issued for any Central and Western Gulf of Mexico tract during 1998 and 1999 to incorporate specified price thresholds. Reaffirms the authority of the Secretary to vary, based on the price of production from a lease, the suspension of royalties under specified leases on the Outer Continental Shelf. Establishes in the Treasury the Oil Shale Community Impact Assistance Fund. Transportation Energy Security and Climate Change Mitigation Act of 2007 - Establishes in the Department of Transportation (DOT) a Center for Climate Change and Environment to plan, coordinate, and implement efforts to reduce transportation-related energy use and mitigate the effects of climate change. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish programs for: (1) purchasing hybrid locomotives, including hybrid switch locomotives; (2) rehabilitating, preserving, or improving railroad tracks; (3) short sea transportation; and (4) environmental mitigation demonstration projects at public-use airports. Establishes standards and programs for public building energy efficiency and renewable energy systems. Requires the installation of a photovoltaic system in the headquarters building of the Department of Energy. Prohibits the use of a general service incandescent lamp in Coast Guard facilities after 2009. Authorizes the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) to: (1) study the feasibility of constructing a photovoltaic roof for the Rayburn House Office Building; and (2) construct a fuel tank and pumping system for E-85 fuel near the Capitol Grounds Fuel Station. Directs the Architect: (1) to include energy efficiency and other environmental measures in the Capitol Complex Master Plan; and (2) install technologies for the capture and storage or use of carbon dioxide. Establishes the 21st Century Water Commission to address future water supply and demand and the impacts of climate change on water availability and quality. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to study the effects of climate change on FEMA preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation programs. Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2007 - Establishes new energy efficiency standards and testing procedures for residential appliances, electric motors, residential boilers, external power supplies, light bulbs, incandescent reflector lamps, and other lighting fixtures. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to establish regional standards for space heating and air conditioning products. Sets forth new energy efficiency standards for residential, commercial, and federal buildings. Establishes: (1) an Office of Federal High-Performance Green Buildings in the General Services Administration (GSA); and (2) an Office of Commercial high-Performance Green Buildings in the Department of Energy. Directs the Secretary to study to use of power management software by DOE and other federal facilities to reduce the use of electricity in computer monitors and personal computers. Directs the EPA Administrator to establish a Recoverable Waste-Energy Inventory Program to survey all major U.S industrial and commercial combustion sources. Establishes in the EPA a Waste Energy Recovery Incentive Grant Program. Establishes Clean Energy Application Centers (previously named Combined Heat and Power Application Centers) for the deployment of clean energy technologies. Sustainable Energy Institutional Infrastructure Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) provide information and technical assistance to institutional entities for developing sustainable infrastructure; (2) create a Sustainable Institutions Revolving Fund to provide loans for the construction or improvement of sustainable energy infrastructure to serve institutional entities; (3) create a training program to educate federal contracting officers to negotiate energy efficiency contracts; (4) establish an Energy Efficiency Block Grant Program to make grants for energy efficiency programs; and (5) provide education and technical assistance to state and local governments on energy efficiency practices. Reauthorizes energy efficiency grant programs through FY2012. Smart Grid Facilitation Act of 2007 - Directs the President to establish a Grid Modernization Commission to implement Smart Grid technologies, coordinate efforts with states and utilities, and develop and implement a National Action Plan on Demand Response. Creates a federal matching grant program to reimburse one-fourth of the costs of implementing Smart Grid technologies where consumers, utilities, states or other participants contribute three-quarters of the costs. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) develop programs to assist deployment of Smart Grid technologies and to perform cooperative demonstration projects with as many as five electric utility systems; and (2) make grants for the installation, replacement, or conversion of motor fuel storage and dispensing infrastructure to store and dispense renewable fuel. Mandates studies on the feasibility of dedicated ethanol pipelines, gasoline with increased ethanol levels, the adequacy of railroad transportation of domestically produced renewable fuel, and the impact of increased use of renewable fuels on the U.S. economy United States-Israel Energy Cooperation Act - Instructs the Secretary of Energy, in implementing certain energy cooperation agreements between the United States and Israel, to establish a grant program to support research, development, and commercialization of alternative renewable energy sources. Establishes a program of incentives for advanced plug-in hybrid motor vehicles and components. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Information Administration to establish a five-year plan to improve data collection for information needed for energy markets and related financial operations.

Pregnant Women Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

Pregnant Women Support Act - Allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to make grants to states for collecting and reporting abortion surveillance data. Requires health facilities that perform abortions to obtained informed consent from a pregnant woman seeking an abortion. Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to allow states to extend health care coverage to an unborn child. Amends the Public Health Service Act to prohibit a health insurance issuer offering individual coverage from imposing a preexisting condition exclusion or a waiting period or otherwise discriminating against a woman on the basis that she is pregnant. Allows the Secretary to make grants for the purchase of ultrasound equipment for examinations of pregnant women. Provides for the collection and dissemination of information on Down syndrome and other prenatally diagnosed conditions. Provides for services to pregnant women who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking. Requires states to require a pregnancy determination for homicide victims. Requires the Secretary to make grants to increase public awareness of resources available to pregnant women and new parents. Allows the Secretary to make grants to public institutions of higher education to establish and operate pregnant and parenting student services offices. Requires the Secretary to provide for programs to work with pregnant or parenting teens to complete high school. Requires group homes for pregnant and parenting women to provide counseling on adoption and parenting skills. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase and make refundable the tax credit for adoption expenses. Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to increase the eligibility threshold for food stamps.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Health Center Week in order to raise awareness of health services provided by community, migrant, public housing, and homeless health centers, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2007

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Health Center Week.

HOPE VI Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

HOPE VI Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to make promoting housing choice among low- and very low-income families one of the purposes of the HOPE VI grant program for revitalization of severely distressed public housing. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to waive the matching contribution requirement in cases of extreme distress or emergency. Prohibits the award of demolition-only grants. Repeals authority for grants for assisting affordable housing developed through main street projects in smaller communities. Makes eligible for the use of HOPE VI grants: (1) necessary costs of ensuring the effective temporary and permanent relocation of residents displaced as a result of project revitalization; and (2) certain activities undertaken to comply with requirements for green developments and replacement housing for hard-to-house families. Revises criteria for selection of proposals for grants, divided into mandatory core components and mandatory graded components. Specifies requirements for mandatory core components of revitalization plans, including among others: (1) involvement of public housing residents in planning and implementation; (2) a temporary relocation program; (3) a right for resident households to expanded housing opportunities; (4) one-for-one replacement of demolished dwelling units; (5) monitoring of displaced households; and (6) green developments. Extends the HOPE VI program through FY2015.

Financial Literacy for Homeowners Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Financial Literacy for Homeowners Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to make grants to state and local governments and nonprofit organizations to implement anti-predatory lending activities, including: (1) consumer education programs; (2) certified home ownership counseling programs; and (3) referral services for homeowners and prospective homeowners. Directs the Secretary provide for establishment, operation, and publication of a nationwide toll-free telephone number to receive consumer complaints regarding predatory and unscrupulous lending practices relating to home loans. Establishes the Predatory Lending Advisory Council to: (1) advise the Secretary; and (2) study and report to the Secretary and Congress on the root causes of default and foreclosure of home loans.

Enhanced Methamphetamine Treatment Grants Assistance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Enhanced Methamphetamine Treatment Grants Assistance Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to award grants for wraparound services, including medical services, job training service, housing assistance, and training in parenting, for methamphetamine infected individuals who: (1) resided in a residential treatment facility for the treatment of methamphetamine abuse or addiction; or (2) received treatment for methamphetamine abuse or addiction from an intensive outpatient treatment facility. Changes the program for substance abuse for pregnant and postpartum women to a program for treatment of substance abuse for caregiver parents, including pregnant women. Requires grantees to give priority to programs that provide services to caregiver parents who are pregnant and postpartum women. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to award grants to assist local jails and detention facilities in providing comprehensive, family-based substance abuse treatment services to pregnant and parenting adults who are considered nonviolent offenders. Sets forth requirements if such a grant is used for a family drug treatment program that is an alternative to incarceration. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to award grants for services in connection with the treatment of methamphetamine use or addiction to underserved populations. Requires the Secretary, through the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, to conduct a study to identify and evaluate methamphetamine use and addiction treatment methodologies.

DISCUSSION DRAFT LEGISLATION TO AMEND AND REAUTHORIZE THE NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING ASSISTANCE AND SELF-DETERMINATION ACT

United States · United States Senate · 19 July 2007

H.R. 2895, THE NATIONAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST FUND ACT OF 2007

United States · United States House of Representatives · 19 July 2007

Veteran's Choice in Nursing Home Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Veteran's Choice in Nursing Home Care Act - Allows the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into agreements with non-Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) nursing homes of the veteran's choice to provide nursing home care to veterans eligible for such care through the VA. Requires the: (1) Secretary to pay the non-VA facility for the provision of such care, with payment limits; and (2) veteran who requests such care to assume responsibility for costs that exceeds the VA limits.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3074) making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3074) making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008.

Recognizing the 20th anniversary of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and the impact it has made on homelessness and endeavoring to continue working to eliminate homelessness in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Recognizes the 20th anniversary of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and its impact upon hundreds of thousands of homeless men, women, children, and youth in the United States, including the substantial contributions of Representatives Stewart B. McKinney and Bruce Vento in addressing homelessness. Supports the efforts of federal, state, and local governments and private non-profit organizations to prevent and end homelessness through the development of affordable housing, including efforts to prevent and end homelessness among armed forces veterans. Commends the dedication and commitment of service providers, including faith-based and nonprofit organizations, to end homelessness in their communities and provide emergency food, shelter, and services to homeless Americans. Declares that the House of Representatives endeavors to work with the same courage, dignity, and determination exemplified by Representatives McKinney and Vento to eliminate homelessness in the United States.

MODERNIZATION OF FEDERAL HOUSING ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS

United States · United States Senate · 18 July 2007

Mentoring America's Children Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Mentoring America's Children Act of 2007 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to make miscellaneous changes to the Mentoring grant program under title IV that include: (1) improvement of school connectedness and character education among mentoring's purposes; (2) corporations, universities, foster care group homes, and other entities among program providers; (3) a requirement that mentors help children become responsible and successful adults; (4) foster youth, children with an incarcerated parent, suburban children in high crime areas, and children living in high gang involvement, drug use, dropout, or youth suicide areas among those most in need of mentoring; (5) children's participation in internships as a program goal; (6) mandatory information on grant applicants about plans for monitoring mentor/mentee matches and the satisfaction of grant matching requirements that increase from 10% to 50% over the three-year grant term; and (7) entities serving foster children or children living in high youth suicide areas as priority grant recipients. Allows grantees to be considered for new grants if: (1) their prior performance was satisfactory; (2) they propose to use the new grant exclusively for expanded service to a new area or population; and (3) they are able to provide a 50% match to the new grant funds. Directs the Secretary of Education to: (1) provide training and technical assistance to, and track and evaluate the performance of, grantees; and (2) arrange for research on school-based mentoring, the results of which are to be provided to the mentoring community. Includes mentoring in ESEA programs for: (1) Indian, Native Hawaiian, and Alaskan Native education; (2) the transitioning of youth offenders into education; and (3) school violence and drug abuse prevention.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 - Department of Transportation Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 to the Department of Transportation. Department of Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 to the Housing and Urban Development. Makes appropriations for FY2008 to: (1) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; (2) the Federal Maritime Commission; (3) the National Transportation Safety Board; (4) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (5) the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act.

Fairness for Homeowners Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Fairness for Homeowners Act of 2007 - Amends the Truth in Lending Act to prohibit any creditor or mortgage broker from making, providing, or arranging for any consumer credit transaction secured by a consumer's principal dwelling without verifying the consumer's reasonable ability to make the scheduled payments of principal, interest (including variable interest), real estate taxes, homeowner's insurance, assessments, and mortgage insurance premiums. Prescribes criteria for determining the reasonable ability to make such payments. Prohibits steering (arranging for a lower investment grade credit transaction if the consumer qualifies for a higher investment grade transaction) and prepayment penalties for adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) that are not jumbo mortgages. Limits financed points, finance charges, and fees to 5% of a transaction's principal, unless the transaction is ensured or guaranteed by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, or the Farmers Home Administration. Specifies duties of agency for mortgage brokers acting to obtain or arrange for any consumer credit transaction secured by the consumer's principal dwelling. Requires creditors and mortgage brokers to obtain independent verification that a borrower seeking to refinance a special mortgage has received counseling on the transaction's advisability. Defines "special mortgage" as one that: (1) was originated, subsidized, funded, or guaranteed by or through a state, tribal, or local government, or nonprofit organization; and (2) bears one or more specified nonstandard payment terms which substantially benefit the consumer. Prescribes minimum financial requirements for mortgage brokers. Excludes reverse mortgages from coverage by this Act.

Home Lead Safety Tax Credit Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Home Lead Safety Tax Credit Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for 50 percent of the costs of reducing lead hazards in U.S. homes built before 1960 in which certain low-income children less than six years of age and women of child-bearing age reside. Allows a maximum credit of $3,000 for lead abatement costs and $1,000 for the cost of interim lead control measures.

FHA Loan Limit Adjustment Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

FHA Loan Limit Adjustment Act of 2007 - Amends the National Housing Act with respect to mortgage insurance eligibility to revise requirements for the principal amount of a mortgage loan, in part increasing the amount of a mortgage that may be insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Repeals the requirement that certain mortgagors, before a mortgage is insured, complete a program of counseling on the responsibilities and financial management involved in homeownership. Increases high-cost area and project-based additional mortgage loan limits for FHA-insured mortgages for: (1) rental housing; (2) cooperative housing; (3) rehabilitation and neighborhood conservation housing insurance; (4) moderate income and displaced family housing; (5) housing for the elderly; and (6) condominiums.

Small Public Housing Authority Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Small Public Housing Authority Act - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to exempt a small public housing agency from the requirement to prepare an annual public agency plan if the agency: (1) administers not more than a total of 250 dwelling units and section 8 vouchers; and (2) is not a troubled agency. Requires an agency to: (1) continue to make an annual civil rights certification, and establish, and consult with, one or more resident advisory boards; and (2) conduct a public hearing to discuss agency goals and policies, and make the information available to the public at the agency's principal office.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2007

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 - Department of Transportation Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 to the Department of Transportation. Department of Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 to the Housing and Urban Development. Makes appropriations for FY2008 to: (1) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; (2) the Federal Maritime Commission; (3) the National Transportation Safety Board; (4) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (5) the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act.

Family Self-Sufficiency Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Family Self-Sufficiency Act of 2007 - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to revise requirements for the administrative fee payable to public housing agencies to cover the costs of administering family self-sufficiency programs in connection with the housing choice voucher program of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Prescribes: (1) a base fee for a public housing agency serving 25 or more program participants equal to the costs of employing one full-time family self-sufficiency coordinator (prorated for an agency serving fewer than 25 such participants); and (2) an additional fee for an agency meeting minimum performance standards to cover the costs of employing a second coordinator if the agency has 75 or more participating families, and a third coordinator if it has 125 or more participating families. Permits the Secretary to reserve certain amounts to provide support to or reward family self-sufficiency programs that are particularly innovative or highly successful in achieving program goals.

Expand and Preserve Home Ownership Through Counseling Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Expand and Preserve Home Ownership Through Counseling Act - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish, in the Office of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Office of Housing Counseling, which shall conduct activities relating to homeownership and rental housing counseling. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (HUDA) to direct the Secretary to establish, coordinate, and monitor HUD administration of homeownership and rental housing counseling procedures provided in connection with any HUD program, including all related requirements, standards, and performance measures. Requires the Secretary to provide for the certification of various computer software programs for consumers to use in evaluating different residential mortgage loan proposals. Directs the Director of Housing Counseling to develop, implement, and conduct national public service multimedia campaigns designed to make persons facing mortgage foreclosure, persons considering a subprime mortgage loan to purchase a home, elderly persons, persons who face language barriers, low-income persons, and other potentially vulnerable consumers aware that: (1) it is advisable, before seeking or maintaining a residential mortgage loan, to obtain homeownership counseling from unbiased and reliable sources; and (2) such homeownership counseling is available. Requires the Secretary to provide: (1) advice and technical assistance to states, local governments, and nonprofit organizations regarding the establishment and operation of related educational programs; as well as (2) financial assistance. Revises the requirement that organizations receiving HUD assistance for counseling activities to provide such counseling only through counselors certified by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the root causes of the default and foreclosure of home loans. Amends the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act of 1974 to revise requirements for HUD booklets designed to help consumers applying for federally related mortgage loans to understand the nature and costs of real estate settlement services.

Advanced Design in Energy for Living Efficiently Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Advanced Design in Energy for Living Efficiently Act of 2007 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) coordinate and provide information on green building design and practices; (2) establish a program to create and distribute information on green building design principles; and (3) establish criteria for education and training of architects, engineers, and developers in green building design and application. Requires the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) to establish a blue ribbon panel to: (1) provide independent counsel to the Administrator on policy issues associated with green building design and practices; (2) report on the results of a study to determine best practices for quantifying the information necessary to make informed property investment decisions; (3) report on funding necessary for research and development on green building design; and (4) establish standards for the construction of new buildings that will reduce carbon emissions. Requires the U.S. Comptroller General to study the use of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development's program for energy efficient mortgages insured under the National Housing Act. Authorizes the Administrator, acting through NIBS, to award grants to state educational agencies to provide sub-grants to local educational agencies for planing and preparing for healthy, high-performance school building projects. Requires the Administrator: (1) acting through NIBS, to assist local education agencies on sustainable designs; and (2) to establish a program to make loan guarantees available to public institutions of higher education for the construction or renovation of permanent buildings that meet the greenhouse gas emission standards. Requires federal agencies to: (1) increase the energy efficiency of their facilities and operations; (2) annually report on the associated energy efficiency increases and carbon emission reductions; and (3) reward employees who make significant contributions to the reduction of agency carbon emissions. Requires federal agencies' energy managers to receive training on green building design, construction, use, and decommissioning. Requires the Comptroller General to transmit to Congress a report comparing the energy efficiency budget request by the President for each federal agency for FY2006-2007 with each agency's request. Requires the Administrator to make block grants to state and local governments for: (1) renovating existing buildings to achieve NIBS standards; (2) redesigning existing plans to enable new buildings to meet such standards; (3) researching and developing technologies to enable and support green building design and the achievement of such standards; and (4) educating and training on green buildings and their construction, use, and decommissioning. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase and extend the energy efficient commercial building deduction.

Fair Mortgage Practices Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Fair Mortgage Practices Act of 2007 - Prohibits any person, with certain exceptions, from engaging in the business of loan origination without first obtaining and maintaining a registration or a state license as a loan originator. Imposes on the federal banking agencies the sole responsibility for developing a system of registration for loan originators. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish a system for: (1) licensed loan originators; and (2) state-licensed mortgage originators. Amends the Truth in Lending Act to set forth: (1) disclosure requirements for consumer credit plans secured by the consumer's principal dwelling; and (2) consumer counseling requirements governing nontraditional mortgages. Expanding Housing Opportunities Through Education and Counseling Act - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to: (1) establish the Office of Housing Counseling; and (2) direct the HUD Secretary to establish and monitor counseling procedures for home ownership counseling and rental housing counseling provided in connection with any HUD program. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to instruct HUD to makes grants to states, local governmental entities, and nonprofit organizations providing home ownership or rental counseling that is HUD-certified. Directs the HUD Secretary to study and report to Congress on the root causes of default and foreclosure on home loans. Amends the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act of 1974 to revise requirements for HUD consumer education booklets on the nature and costs of real estate settlement services. Amends the Truth in Lending Act to: (1) require a creditor to establish, in connection with a subprime mortgage transaction, an escrow or impound account for payment of taxes and hazard insurance; (2) require a disclosure notice for consumers who opt out of escrow services; and (3) limit prepayment penalties for certain introductory adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs). Authorizes appropriations to the Attorney General for mortgage fraud prevention, investigation, and prosecution efforts. Sets forth property appraisal requirements governing the sale of subprime mortgages. Amends the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 to revise requirements for the Appraisal Subcommittee of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council, and prescribe requirements regarding appraiser independence and approved appraiser education. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to specified congressional committees on possible improvements in the appraisal process. Amends the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 to permit a federal financial supervisory agency, in its examination of a regulated financial institution, to take into account certain counseling and transition programs of the institution for subprime borrowers.

Native American Economic Development and Infrastructure for Housing Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Native American Economic Development and Infrastructure for Housing Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to guarantee notes and obligations issued by Indian tribes or tribally designated housing entities, with tribal approval, to finance community and economic development activities, especially those benefiting low-income Indian families, on Indian reservations and in other Indian areas.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1851) to reform the housing choice voucher program under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1851) to reform the housing choice voucher program under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING PRESERVATION: LESSONS FROM STARRETT CITY

United States · United States House of Representatives · 10 July 2007

Rural Broadband Access Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Rural Broadband Access Enhancement Act - Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to redefine "eligible rural community." Permits a loan or loan guarantee applicant in an area where 40% of the residents are without broadband access to qualify with a 10% loan equity position. Provides for: (1) paperwork reduction; and (2) program outreach to underserved areas. Prohibits loan or loan guarantees for new broadband service in communities with three or more service providers. Provides that for each fiscal year: (1) not more than 10% of program funds shall be available to providers with more than 10% of national subscriber lines; and (2) 40% of program funds shall be available to providers with between 2%-10% of national subscriber lines. Revises the amortization period from the life of the asset to 35 years. Requires an annual broadband program report to Congress.

Housing Fairness Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Housing Fairness Act of 2007 - Instructs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to conduct, and report to Congress on, a nationwide testing program to: (1) detect and document differences in the treatment of persons seeking to rent or purchase housing or obtain or refinance a home mortgage loan; (2) measure patterns of adverse treatment because of the race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability status, or national origin of a renter, home buyer, or borrower; and (3) measure the prevalence of such discriminatory practices across housing and mortgage lending markets. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987 to reauthorize the fair housing initiatives program. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary should: (1) fully comply with such Act's requirements to establish, design, and maintain a national education and outreach program for the development and dissemination of the fair housing rights of individuals who seek to rent, purchase, sell, or facilitate the sale of a home; (2) use all amounts appropriated for such program; and (3) promulgate regulations on the fair housing obligations of each recipient of federal housing funds to affirmatively further fair housing. Directs the Secretary to implement a competitive matching grant program to assist private nonprofit organizations in: (1) conducting comprehensive studies of specified aspects of the causes and effects of housing discrimination and segregation; and (2) implementing pilot projects that test solutions to help prevent or alleviate housing discrimination and segregation.

FHA Manufactured Housing Loan Modernization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

FHA Manufactured Housing Loan Modernization Act of 2007 - Amends the National Housing Act with respect to Federal Housing Administration (FHA) housing loan insurance for manufactured homes (or lots for such homes). Exempts such loans from certain financial institution portfolio limits, increasing an allowable claim for loss from 10% to 90% of an institution's total amount of such loans, credit advances, and purchases. Makes any new contract of insurance for such loans, credit advances, or purchases conclusive evidence of an institution's insurance eligibility. (Thus requires each loan to be insured individually instead of as part of a bundle of such loans.) Increases loan limits, requiring annual indexing. Sets forth borrower premium charges, including an up-front premium of up to 2.25% and an annual premium of up to 1%. Revises requirements for the handling and disposal of any real or personal conveyed to or acquired by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the pursuit of all claims against mortgagors assigned to the Secretary by mortgagees. Directs the Secretary of HUD to establish underwriting criteria that will ensure the manufactured housing program's financial soundness.