Housing

Reducing Unnecessary Barriers for Relative Foster Parents Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

Reducing Barriers for Relative Foster Parents Act This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to identify reputable model standards for the licensing of foster family homes. Part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act is amended to require state plans for foster care and adoption assistance to require submission to HHS of information addressing: whether the state licensing standards are in accord with HHS-identified model standards, and if not, the reason for the specific deviation and a description of why having a standard that is reasonably in accord with the corresponding national model standards is not appropriate for the state; whether the state has elected to waive certain standards for relative foster family homes, a description of standards most commonly waived, and if the state has not so elected, the reason why; if the state has elected to waive such standards, how caseworkers are trained to use the waiver authority and whether the state has developed a process or offered tools to assist caseworkers in waiving nonsafety standards to quickly place children with relatives; and a description of the steps the state is taking to improve caseworker training or the process, if any.

SHELTER Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

Strengthening Homes and Eliminating Liabilities Through Encouraging Readiness Act or the SHELTER Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individual and business taxpayers a tax credit for 25% of their qualified hurricane and tornado mitigation property expenditures up to $5,000 for any taxable year. The bill defines such expenditures as expenditures in a dwelling unit or place of business for property to improve the strength of a roof deck attachment, create a secondary water barrier, improve the durability of a roof covering, brace gable-end walls, reinforce the connections between a roof and supporting wall, protect against windborne debris, or protect exterior doors and garages.

Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2017 This bill amends the Fair Housing Act (FHA) under the Civil Rights Act of 1968 to add sexual orientation and gender identity as classes protected against discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing. (Currently, the FHA prohibits housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.) The bill defines: (1) "gender identity" as gender-related identity, appearance, or mannerisms or other gender-related characteristics of an individual, without regard to the individual's designated sex at birth; and (2) "sexual orientation" as homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality. The bill also extends prohibitions against housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, handicap, familial status, or national origin to include discrimination based on: (1) an individual's association with another person who is a member of such a protected class; and (2) a perception or belief, even if inaccurate, that an individual is a member of such a protected class.

Relationship Lending Preservation Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

Relationship Lending Preservation Act of 2017 This bill directs the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to issue regulations that include as a "qualified mortgage" any mortgage loan that: (1) is extended by a Federal Home Loan Bank member that, together with its affiliates, has less than $10 billion in total consolidated assets; (2) meets specified qualifying criteria under the Truth in Lending Act; and (3) is eligible to be purchased by a Federal Home Loan Bank pursuant to regulations of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and requirements established by the bank. Current law provides certain protections for lenders against lawsuits by distressed borrowers with respect to qualified mortgages.

TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018

United States · United States Senate · 7 June 2017

Corporate Responsibility and Taxpayer Protection Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2017

Corporate Responsibility and Taxpayer Protection Act of 2017 This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a tax on large employers whose employees receive certain federal benefits during the year. A "large employer" is an employer who employed an average of at least 500 full-time employees on business days during the preceding year. The tax is equal to the benefits that the employees receive under: (1) the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as the food stamp program), (2) the school lunch and school breakfast programs administered under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, (3) section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937, and (4) Medicaid.

Give Veterans Home Loan Choices Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2017

Give Veterans Home Loan Choices A ct of 2017 This bill amends the National Housing Act to require that a Federal Housing Administration mortgage notice for a prospective borrower who is a veteran include, in addition to comparative rate and fee information about conventional loans, similar comparative information about Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans. The Federal Housing Finance Agency shall direct the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) to revise the uniform residential loan application by December 31, 2018, to include: (1) a check box to indicate that the applicant is a veteran; (2) the statement "If you are a veteran, you may be eligible for a VA mortgage"; and (3) a blank line for the borrower to initial and a statement that all applicants must initial the line to confirm that they have read the VA mortgage eligibility statement. The bill requires pre-separation counseling for a member of the Armed Forces who is separating from active duty to include: information on the availability of VA home loan services and housing assistance benefits, including the authority of a member to use an honorable discharge certificate as a certificate of eligibility for a VA guaranteed housing loan or to request a specific certificate of eligibility for such loan; and counseling on responsible borrowing practices.

Welfare Reform and Upward Mobility Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2017

Welfare Reform and Upward Mobility Act This bill requires the President to include in the annual budget proposal the total level of means-tested welfare spending by the federal, state, and local governments for the most recent fiscal year for which such data is available, and estimated levels for the current and 10 ensuing fiscal years. For each of FY2019-FY2029 each state that receives means-tested welfare spending by the federal government shall report annually to the Congressional Budget Office on the total amount of such spending by the state for the fiscal year. The Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is amended to define means-tested welfare spending as spending for any federal program designed specifically to give assistance or benefits exclusively to low-income Americans. The refundable portion of certain tax credits shall also be means-tested welfare spending, as well as the refundable portion of the premium and out-of-pocket health care subsidies to be paid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Health Care Act. The bill revises work eligibility requirements under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF) of title IV of the Social Security Act is amended to create the work preparation program for TANF families. The bill eliminates separate participation rate requirements for two-parent families. No federal funds shall be made available to carry out any means-tested housing program, but states may receive grants to fund their own housing programs. The bill prohibits funding for abortions and for health benefits that cover abortion, including certain tax credits, except where the pregnancy results from rape or incest or in certain other health cases.

J. Paul Compton, Jr., of Alabama, to be General Counsel of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, vice Helen R. Kanovsky, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 25 May 2017

Neal J. Rackleff, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, vice Mercedes Marquez.

United States · United States Senate · 25 May 2017

Modernizing the Interstate Placement of Children in Foster Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Modernizing the Interstate Placement of Children in Foster Care Act This bill amends part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act to require the procedures a state must have in effect for the orderly and timely interstate placement of children in foster care to include an electronic interstate case-processing system. Indian tribes are exempted from such requirement. Funding is authorized for development of an electronic interstate case-processing system to expedite the interstate placement of children in foster care, guardianship, or adoptive homes. Discretionary funding shall be continued through FY2018 to promote safe and stable families. The Department of Health and Human Services shall reserve $5 million of the amount made available for promoting safe and stable families in FY2018 to make grants to states for the development of the electronic interstate case-processing system. This amount shall remain available through FY2022.

Housing Our Heroes Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Housing Our Heroes Act This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to begin a three-year pilot grant program to assess the feasibility of awarding grants to eligible entities to purchase and renovate abandoned homes for homeless veterans. Eligible entities are veterans service agencies and organizations, homeless organizations, and other nongovernmental organizations that demonstrate a record of financial stability and experience in developing housing for homeless veterans. The VA shall give grant priority to entities that serve communities with the greatest need of homeless services and may give grant priority to achieve geographic grant distribution. The bill establishes the Veterans Homelessness Grant Fund.

Nursing Home Care for Native American Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Nursing Home Care for Native American Veterans Act This bill defines "state homes" to include homes established by federally recognized Indian tribes for veterans who, by reason of disability, are incapable of earning a living. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) shall pay those tribes for the hospital, nursing home, domiciliary, and medical care they provide to veterans in those homes. Those tribes shall be eligible for VA grants for the construction of state homes.

Legal Services for Homeless Veterans Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Legal Services for Homeless Veterans Act of 2017 This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs to enter into agreements with public or private entities to fund, through the award of a grant or the use of a contract, a portion of the pro bono legal services such entities provide to homeless veterans or veterans at risk of homelessness related to housing, family law, income support, and criminal defense.

Keep Student Veterans in Their Homes Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Keep Student Veterans in Their Homes Act of 2017 This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs to continue to pay educational assistance and subsistence allowances to eligible veterans and eligible persons enrolled in specified courses solely for a monthly housing stipend of up to four months following a permanent school closure. A housing or educational assistance payment shall not be counted against the aggregate period for which such assistance may be provided or charged against the individual's entitlement to educational assistance.

VET TEC Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses Act of 2017 or the VET TEC Act of 2017 This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out a five-year pilot program to provide eligible veterans with the opportunity to enroll in high technology programs of education, which are programs that are offered by entities other than institutions of higher learning, do not lead to a degree, and provide instruction in computer programming, computer software, media application, data processing, or information sciences. The VA shall enter into contracts with multiple qualified providers of such programs, under which the VA shall pay: (1) 25% of the cost of providing the program upon the enrollment of an eligible veteran, (2) 25% of such cost when the veteran completes the program, and (3) 50% of such cost upon the veteran's employment following completion in a field related to the course of study. A provider of a high technology program of education is qualified if the provider: (1) has offered, for at least two years, the credential it plans to provide under the pilot; (2) verifies that each such credential has demonstrated market value based on the employment and earnings of participants; and (3) has the ability to evaluate job placement rates and earnings through means other than survey or self-reported data. The VA shall give preference to a qualified provider that offers tuition reimbursement for any student who completes the program and does not find full-time meaningful employment within 180 days. The bill limits tuition and provides for removal of providers that increase tuition by more than 10% from the previous year. The VA shall pay a monthly housing stipend to each eligible veteran enrolled full-time in such a program.

BUIILD Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Bringing Useful Initiatives for Indian Land Development Act of 2017 or BUIILD Act of 2017 This bill amends the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 to modify the environmental review process used for certain affordable housing activities on Indian reservations. Specifically, the bill allows an Indian tribe that receives federal funds in addition to block grant amounts under the Act to assume all of the responsibilities for environmental review that would apply to the federal agencies providing funds for the project if the grant amount constitutes the largest single source of federal funds that the tribe reasonably expects to commit to the project at the time of environmental review. The bill reauthorizes through FY2025 the block grant program for affordable housing activities on Indian reservations, training and technical assistance for Indian tribes and tribally designated housing entities, and the Indian Housing Loan Guarantee Fund. In addition, the bill increases from 50 years to 99 years the term that tribal trusts or restricted lands may be leased for housing development and residential purposes. Funds provided under a grant under the Act may be used to meet matching or cost participation requirements under other federal or nonfederal programs.

Modernizing the Interstate Placement of Children in Foster Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2017

Modernizing the Interstate Placement of Children in Foster Care Act This bill amends part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act to require the procedures a state must have in effect for the orderly and timely interstate placement of children to include an electronic interstate case-processing system. Indian tribes are exempted from such requirement. Funding is authorized for development of an electronic interstate case-processing system to expedite the interstate placement of children in foster care, guardianship, or adoptive homes. Discretionary funding shall be continued through FY2018 to promote safe and stable families. The Department of Health and Human Services shall reserve $5 million of the amount made available for such grants for FY2018, which reserved amount shall remain available through FY2022.

To amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require the annual human rights reports to include information on the institutionalization of children and the subjection of children to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, unnecessary detention, and denial of the right to life, liberty, and the security of persons, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2017

This bill amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require annual human rights reports to include information on the: institutionalization of children, including in orphanages and group homes, if such institutionalization can be avoided by reunifying such children with parents of origin or by adoptive placement; and related subjection of children to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, unnecessary detention, and denial of the right to life, liberty, and the security of persons.

BUILD Resilience Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2017

Building Up Infrastructure and Limiting Disasters through Resilience Act of 2017 or the BUILD Resilience Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to carry out a Community Resilience Grant Program to provide assistance to communities for increasing resilience to chronic stresses and acute shocks, including by improving long-term resilience of infrastructure and housing. A state, local government, or regional entity is eligible for such a grant if it is located in an area that has been declared a major disaster area within the previous five years. HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research must select and award annual grants to a single nonprofit organization having a national reputation for expertise in resilience research and capacity building to develop, establish, and operate a National Research Center for Resilience. The center shall provide grants to institutions of higher education or other nonprofit organizations to establish a Regional Center for Resilience in each of HUD's 10 regions to serve as regional research partners with recipients of resilience grants.

HOMES Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2017

Halting Of Mortgage Exploitation of Servicemembers Act of 2017 or the HOMES Act of 2017 This bill amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to establish a 10-year statute of limitations for civil actions for violations of such Act brought by the Department of Justice or by a private party.

National Park Service Legacy Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2017

National Park Service Legacy Act of 2017 This bill: (1) establishes the National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund, and (2) requires specified amounts of federal mineral revenues that are not otherwise credited, covered, or deposited pursuant to federal law to be deposited into such fund each fiscal year through FY2047. Amounts in the fund shall be used for meeting high-priority deferred maintenance needs of the National Park Service (NPS) as follows: 20% shall be allocated to transportation-related projects that may be eligible for funding made available to the NPS through the federal lands transportation program or any similar federal land highway program administered by the Department of Transportation; and 80% shall be allocated for the repair and rehabilitation of assets for certain projects that are not eligible for funding under such programs, including historic assets, nonhistoric assets related to visitor access, health and safety, and recreation, and visitor facilities, water and utility systems, and employee housing. No fund amounts may be used by the NPS to acquire land or to supplant discretionary funding made available for annually recurring facility operations and maintenance needs. As part of its annual budget submission, the NPS shall submit a prioritized list of deferred maintenance projects proposed to be funded by such fund during the fiscal year.

BUILD Resilience Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2017

Building Up Infrastructure and Limiting Disasters through Resilience Act of 2017 or the BUILD Resilience Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to carry out a Community Resilience Grant Program to provide assistance to communities for increasing resilience to chronic stresses and acute shocks, including by improving long-term resilience of infrastructure and housing. A state, local government, or regional entity is eligible for such a grant if it is located in an area that has been declared a major disaster area within the previous five years. HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research must select and award annual grants to a single nonprofit organization having a national reputation for expertise in resilience research and capacity building to develop, establish, and operate a National Research Center for Resilience. The center shall provide grants to institutions of higher education or other nonprofit organizations to establish a Regional Center for Resilience in each of HUD's 10 regions to serve as regional research partners with recipients of resilience grants.

Mortgage Fairness Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2017

Mortgage Fairness Act of 2017 This bill amends the Truth in Lending Act to revise the definition of "points and fees," for purposes of determining whether a mortgage is a "high-cost mortgage," to: (1) exclude compensation taken into account in setting the interest rate and for which the consumer was not separately charged, and (2) include compensation paid by a consumer or creditor to an individual employed by or contracting with a mortgage originator. (A high-cost mortgage designation restricts the terms of a loan and requires a lender to make certain disclosures to the borrower.)

Vulnerable Children and Families Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2017

Vulnerable Children and Families Act of 2017 This bill redesignates the Office of Children's Issues of the Department of State as the Office of Vulnerable Children and Family Security (VCFS). The President shall appoint an Ambassador-at-Large to promote: (1) oversight of the VCFS; (2) the implementation in foreign countries of child welfare laws and policies in keeping with the goals of the United States Government Action Plan on Children in Adversity; and (3) addressing the gap in U.S. diplomacy, policy, and operations regarding permanent family care for children living without families. The Ambassador-at-Large shall: (1) advise the State Department and the President about vulnerable children and family security in foreign countries; (2) represent the United States regarding international child welfare, family preservation and reunification, and provision of permanent, safe parental care; (3) develop related policies and programs; and (4) submit an annual report on implementation of such action plan. The bill provides the VCFS with lead responsibility for: (1) representing the U.S. government regarding intercountry adoptions, and (2) determining whether a country has met its obligations under the Hague Convention of Protection of Children and Cooperation in Respect of Inter-Country Adoption and is eligible to participate in intercountry adoptions in accordance with U.S. law. The Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 is amended to: (1) include in the annual country reports on human rights practices information on the conditions of children living in orphanages and group homes, and (2) repeal certain provisions providing assistance for orphans and other vulnerable children. The Special Advisor for Assistance to Orphans and Vulnerable Children shall work with the Ambassador-at-Large to ensure that U.S. assistance and development programs are focused on: child development through the integration of health, nutrition, and family support; facilitating government efforts to protect children from violence, exploitation, and neglect; building integrated child welfare and protection systems; and integrating such objectives with U.S. government agencies.

Vulnerable Children and Families Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2017

Vulnerable Children and Families Act of 2017 This bill redesignates the Office of Children's Issues of the Department of State as the Office of Vulnerable Children and Family Security (VCFS). The President shall appoint an Ambassador-at-Large to promote: (1) oversight of the VCFS; (2) the implementation in foreign countries of child welfare laws and policies in keeping with the goals of the United States Government Action Plan on Children in Adversity; and (3) addressing the gap in U.S. diplomacy, policy, and operations regarding permanent family care for children living without families. The Ambassador-at-Large shall: (1) advise the State Department and the President about vulnerable children and family security in foreign countries; (2) represent the United States regarding international child welfare, family preservation and reunification, and provision of permanent, safe parental care; (3) develop related policies and programs; and (4) submit an annual report on implementation of such action plan. The bill provides the VCFS with lead responsibility for: (1) representing the U.S. government regarding intercountry adoptions, and (2) determining whether a country has met its obligations under the Hague Convention of Protection of Children and Cooperation in Respect of Inter-Country Adoption and is eligible to participate in intercountry adoptions in accordance with U.S. law. The Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 is amended to: (1) include in the annual country reports on human rights practices information on the conditions of children living in orphanages and group homes, and (2) repeal certain provisions providing assistance for orphans and other vulnerable children. The Special Advisor for Assistance to Orphans and Vulnerable Children shall work with the Ambassador-at-Large to ensure that U.S. assistance and development programs are focused on: child development through the integration of health, nutrition, and family support; facilitating government efforts to protect children from violence, exploitation, and neglect; building integrated child welfare and protection systems; and integrating such objectives with U.S. government agencies.

A bill to amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require the annual human rights reports to include information on the institutionalization of children and the subjection of children to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, unnecessary detention, and denial of the right to life, liberty, and the security of persons.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2017

This bill amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require annual country reports on human rights practices to include information on: (1) the institutionalization of children in orphanages and group homes when such institutionalization can be avoided by reunifying children with parents of origin or placing them in adoptive homes; and (2) the subjection of children to cruel or degrading treatment, unnecessary detention, and denial of the right to life, liberty, and the security of persons.

Leading Infrastructure for Tomorrow's America Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2017

Leading Infrastructure for Tomorrow's America Act This bill authorizes appropriations for the nation's infrastructure, including appropriations for: secure broadband internet access, with a prioritization on expanding broadband access in unserved areas; drinking water improvements, such as appropriations for the drinking water state revolving fund and programs for reducing lead in drinking water; the electric power grid, with a focus on grid modernization, security, resiliency, and efficiency; energy efficiency in buildings, including homes and schools; incentives for natural gas distribution companies to improve the public safety and environmental performance of the natural gas distribution system (e.g., pipeline replacements); the deployment of renewable energy systems; the incorporation of clean energy into community development and revitalization efforts; revitalization of brownfield sites (commercial properties that are hindered from reuse or redevelopment due to the presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant); hospital infrastructure, with a prioritization given to projects that include cybersecurity; outpatient health care facilities in the Indian Health Service; and the improvement, renovation, or modernization of the infrastructure at clinical laboratories, teaching health centers, or behavioral health care centers. In addition, the bill reauthorizes funding for: (1) a diesel emissions reduction program for certain diesel vehicles or fleets, (2) ensuring the Strategic Petroleum Reserve is operated and maintained in an environmentally sound manner; and (3) establishing a Southeast Refined Product Reserve to mitigate the impacts of a severe energy supply interruption in the Southeast.

Military Family Stability Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2017

Military Family Stability Act This bill directs the Department of Defense (DOD) to prescribe regulations that permit an eligible member of the Armed Forces who is undergoing a permanent change of station within the United States to request specified housing treatment during the period from 180 days before to 180 days after such change. An "eligible member" is a member who: has a spouse who is gainfully employed or enrolled in a degree, certificate, or license granting program at the beginning of such period; has one or more dependents attending an elementary or secondary school at the beginning of such period; has one or more dependents enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program; or is caring for an immediate family member with a chronic or long-term illness at the beginning of such period. If a spouse or other dependent of a member whose request for such housing treatment is approved: (1) resides in government-owned or government-leased housing at the beginning of such period, he or she may continue to reside there during such period; and (2) relocates at a time different from the member, the member may be assigned to housing intended for members without a spouse or dependent until the member's detachment date or the spouse or other dependent's arrival date, if such housing is available without displacing a member without a spouse or dependent. (The bill specifies alternatives for the basic housing allowance to be provided in such case.) The Government Accountability Office shall report to Congress on potential DOD actions to enhance the well-being of military families undergoing a permanent change of station.

Stop Online Booking Scams Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2017

Stop Online Booking Scams Act of 2017 This bill prohibits third-party online hotel reservation sellers from charging a consumer's credit card or financial accounts in an Internet transaction for a hotel unless they disclose: (1) a description of the offered good or service, the cost, and other material terms before the conclusion of the transaction; (2) that the third-party seller is not affiliated with the hotel owner or an entity that provides the hotel services or accommodations; (3) that the third-party seller is not an exhibition organizer, a meeting planner, or the official housing bureau for an event at the hotel; and (4) the brand identity of the third party online or over the phone. The bill provides authority to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and states to enforce against violations. The bill also expresses the sense of Congress that the FTC should revise its website to make it easier for consumers and businesses to report complaints of deceptive practices with respect to online booking of hotel reservations.

Stop Online Booking Scams Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2017

Stop Online Booking Scams Act of 2017 This bill prohibits third-party online hotel reservation sellers from charging a consumer's credit card or financial accounts in an Internet transaction for a hotel unless they disclose: (1) a description of the offered good or service, the cost, and other material terms before the conclusion of the transaction; (2) that the third-party seller is not affiliated with the hotel owner or an entity that provides the hotel services or accommodations; (3) that the third-party seller is not an exhibition organizer, a meeting planner, or the official housing bureau for an event at the hotel; and (4) the brand identity of the third party online or over the phone. The bill provides authority to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and states to enforce against violations. The bill also expresses the sense of Congress that the FTC should revise its website to make it easier for consumers and businesses to report complaints of deceptive practices with respect to online booking of hotel reservations.

Military Family Stability Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2017

Military Family Stability Act This bill directs the Department of Defense (DOD) to prescribe regulations that permit an eligible member of the Armed Forces who is undergoing a permanent change of station within the United States to request specified housing treatment during the period from 180 days before to 180 days after such change. An "eligible member" is a member who: has a spouse who is gainfully employed or enrolled in a degree, certificate, or license granting program at the beginning of such period; has one or more dependents attending an elementary or secondary school at the beginning of such period; has one or more dependents enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program; or is caring for an immediate family member with a chronic or long-term illness at the beginning of such period. If a spouse or other dependent of a member whose request for such housing treatment is approved: (1) resides in government-owned or government-leased housing at the beginning of such period, he or she may continue to reside there during such period; and (2) relocates at a time different from the member, the member may be assigned to housing intended for members without a spouse or dependent until the member's detachment date or the spouse or other dependent's arrival date, if such housing is available without displacing a member without a spouse or dependent. (The bill specifies alternatives for the basic housing allowance to be provided in such case.) The Government Accountability Office shall report to Congress on potential DOD actions to enhance the well-being of military families undergoing a permanent change of station.

Disability Integration Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2017

Disability Integration Act of 2017 This bill prohibits states or local governments that provide institutional placements for individuals with disabilities who need long-term assistance with daily living activities or health-related tasks, and prohibits insurance providers that fund such long-term services, from denying community-based services that would enable such individuals to live in the community and lead an independent life. States, local governments, or insurance providers may not discriminate against such individuals in the provision of community-based services by: (1) imposing prohibited eligibility criteria, cost caps, waiting lists, or payment structures; (2) failing to provide a specific community-based service; or (3) requiring an individual to receive a service in a congregate or disability-specific setting. Community-based services must be offered to individuals with such disabilities prior to institutionalization. Institutionalized individuals must be notified regularly of community-based alternatives. States, local governments, and public insurance providers must assess: (1) transportation barriers that prevent individuals from receiving services in integrated settings, and (2) the availability of integrated employment opportunities. The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must issue regulations requiring states, local governments, or insurance providers to offer community-based long-term services to individuals with such disabilities who would otherwise qualify for institutional placement. State and local governments, in conjunction with housing agencies, must ensure sufficient availability of affordable, accessible, and integrated housing that is not a disability-specific residential setting or a setting where services are tied to tenancy. Such regulations must also require states and local governments to begin implementing a transition plan to achieve the requirements of this bill within 12 years after its enactment. For 10 years after issuance of the regulations, HHS must determine annually whether each state is complying with the transition plan. If a state is complying, HHS must increase by five percentage points the federal medical assistance percentage for a state requesting an increase for expenditures on home and community-based services furnished under the state Medicaid plan under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act, or a waiver of such plan, that are identified as: (1) improvements to ensure accessibility or self-directed receipt of such services, (2) funding shifts from institutional settings to integrated community-based services, or (3) environmental modifications for housing targeted toward the lowest income individuals. The bill provides for DOJ enforcement and allows civil actions by individuals subjected to, or about to be subjected to, a violation of this bill.

Low-Income Solar Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2017

Low-Income Solar Act This bill requires the Department of Energy to establish a loan and grant program for photovoltaic solar (a method of converting energy from the sun into electricity) installations in low-income and underserved areas for FY2018-FY2032. Loans must be provided for: (1) community solar facilities that provide solar energy to low-income households, or (2) solar installations at federally subsidized affordable housing at multi-family complexes. The community solar facilities must: (1) be owned by an organization of electricity consumers that own a share of the facility's solar electricity generation, (2) have a certain a nameplate rating (or power generation capacity), (3) be located in or near a community that uses the electricity generated by the facility, and (4) reserve at least 25% of the electricity generated for low-income households. Grants must be given for: (1) solar electricity generating facilities installed on properties of eligible, low-income home owners; or (2) new solar projects for low-income households and individuals, including the costs of equipment and job training associated with solar projects.

Action for Dental Health Act of 2018

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2017

Action for Dental Health Act 2017 This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize oral health promotion and disease prevention programs through FY2022. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may award grants or enter into contracts to obtain portable or mobile dental equipment and pay operational costs for the provision of free dental services to underserved populations. The CDC may also award grants or enter into contracts to collaborate with state, county, or local public officials and other stakeholders to develop and implement initiatives to: (1) improve oral health education and dental disease prevention; (2) make the dental services delivery system more accessible and efficient through outreach programs that facilitate the establishment of dental homes; (3) reduce geographic barriers, language barriers, cultural barriers, and other similar barriers in the provision of dental services; (4) reduce the use of emergency departments by individuals who seek dental services more appropriately delivered in a dental primary care setting; or (5) facilitate the provision of dental care to nursing home residents who are disproportionately affected by lack of care.

THE STATUS OF THE HOUSING FINANCE SYSTEM AFTER NINE YEARS OF CONSERVATORSHIP

United States · United States Senate · 11 May 2017

Violence Against Women Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2017

Violence Against Women Veterans Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out a program to assist veterans that have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault in accessing benefits from the VA, including by coordinating access to medical treatment centers, housing assistance, and other benefits. The VA shall carry out the program in partnership with specified health care or other service providers that serve domestic violence or sexual assault victims. The VA may: (1) conduct training for community-based domestic violence or sexual assault service providers on identifying veterans who have been victims, coordinating with local VA service providers, and connecting veterans with appropriate VA housing, mental health, medical, and other financial assistance or benefits; and (2) provide assistance to service providers to ensure veterans access to domestic violence and sexual assault emergency services. The VA may establish local coordinators to provide outreach under such program and ensure that each coordinator is knowledgeable about: the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault, including safety concerns, legal protections, and the need for confidential services; veteran eligibility for VA services and benefits relevant to recovery from domestic violence and sexual assault; and local community resources addressing domestic violence and sexual assault. Each coordinator shall assist domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers in providing services to veterans. The VA shall: (1) establish a national task force to develop a comprehensive national program to address domestic violence and sexual assault among veterans, and (2) conduct a national baseline study to examine the scope of the problem of domestic violence and sexual assault among veterans and spouses of veterans.

Homeless Veterans Prevention Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 9 May 2017

Homeless Veterans Prevention Act of 2017 This bill provides that the services for which a recipient of a grant under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) comprehensive service program for homeless veterans may receive per diem payments may include furnishing care for a dependent under the care of a veteran who is receiving services. The VA shall enter into partnerships with public or private entities to fund a portion of the legal services such entities provide to homeless veterans and veterans at risk of homelessness related to housing, family law, income support, and criminal defense. The bill: (1) expands VA dental care authority authority to include those veterans receiving assistance under the United States Housing Act of 1937, (2) repeals the September 30, 2013, sunset on the authority of the VA and the Department of Labor to carry out a program of referral and counseling for veterans who are at risk of homelessness and are transitioning from certain institutions, including penal institutions, and (3) extends supportive services assistance for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. The Government Accountability Office shall complete a study of VA assistance to homeless veterans. The requirement that the VA report annually on its assistance programs for homeless veterans is eliminated.

Clean Energy for America Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2017

Clean Energy for America Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to modify or replace several existing energy-related tax incentives to provide consolidated tax deductions and credits for the production of or investment in clean electricity, the production of clean transportation fuels, and energy efficient homes and commercial buildings. The new tax incentives are technology-neutral and the amounts of the credits or deductions vary based on the levels of carbon emissions for the incentives for electricity and fuels or energy efficiency in the case of the incentives for energy efficient homes and commercial buildings. The bill also establishes tax credits for certain bonds issued by a governmental body, a public power provider, or a cooperative electric company for facilities producing clean electricity or clean transportation fuels. The bill phases out the new tax incentives when annual greenhouse gas emissions in the United States have been reduced by at least 35%. In order to provide for a transition period for the new tax incentives, the bill temporarily extends several existing energy-related tax provisions. With respect to the existing qualifying advanced energy project credit, the Department of the Treasury must establish an additional qualifying advanced energy project program to consider and award certifications for qualified investments eligible for credits.

Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights

United States · United States Congress · 3 May 2017

Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure that an Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights is printed on signage in accessible formats and displayed prominently and conspicuously in each VA prosthetics and orthotics clinic. VA employees who work at such clinics, as well as patient advocates of veterans who receive care there, must receive training on such Bill of Rights. The VA shall conduct outreach to inform veterans of such Bill of Rights. Such Bill of Rights shall include the right to: (1) access the highest quality prosthetic and orthotic care; (2) select the practitioner that best meets their prosthetic and orthotic needs; (3) receive timely and efficient prosthetic and orthotic care; and (4) transition and readjust to civilian life in an honorable manner, including by having ample access to vocational rehabilitation, employment programs, and housing assistance. The bill directs: (1) the VA to collect information relating to the alleged mistreatment of injured and amputee veterans, (2) the veteran liaison at each VA medical center to submit quarterly to the VA's Chief Consultant of Prosthetics and Sensory Aids a report on such information, and (3) the Chief Consultant to investigate and address such information.

Equality Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2017

Equality Act This bill amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity among the prohibited categories of discrimination or segregation in places of public accommodation. The bill defines: "sex" to include a sex stereotype, sexual orientation or gender identity, and pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition; "sexual orientation" as homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality; and "gender identity" as gender-related identity, appearance, mannerisms, or characteristics, regardless of the individual's designated sex at birth. The bill expands the categories of public accommodations to include places or establishments that provide: exhibitions, recreation, exercise, amusement, gatherings, or displays; goods, services, or programs, including a store, a shopping center, an online retailer or service provider, a salon, a bank, a gas station, a food bank, a service or care center, a shelter, a travel agency, a funeral parlor, or a health care, accounting, or legal service; or transportation services. The bill prohibits "establishment" from being construed to be limited to a physical facility or place. The Department of Justice (DOJ) may bring a civil action if it receives a complaint from an individual who claims to be: denied equal utilization of a public facility owned, operated, or managed by a state (other than public schools or colleges) on account of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity; or denied admission to, or not permitted to continue attending, a public college by reason of sexual orientation or gender identity, thereby expanding DOJ's existing authority to bring such actions for complaints based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The bill revises public school desegregation standards to provide for the assignment of students without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill prohibits programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance from denying benefits to, or discriminating against, persons based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The bill prohibits employers with 15 or more employees from discriminating based on sexual orientation or gender identity, subject to the same exceptions and conditions that currently apply to unlawful employment practices based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Employers must recognize individuals in accordance with their gender identity if sex is a bona fide occupational qualification that is reasonably necessary to the normal operation of that particular business or enterprise. The bill provides government employees with protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. DOJ may intervene in equal protection actions in federal court on account of sexual orientation or gender identity. Protections against discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin shall include protections against discrimination based on: (1) an association with another person who is a member of such a protected class; or (2) a perception or belief, even if inaccurate, that an individual is a member of such a protected class. The bill prohibits the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 from providing a claim, defense, or basis for challenging such protections. The bill prohibits an individual from being denied access to a shared facility, including a restroom, a locker room, and a dressing room, that is in accordance with the individual's gender identity. The bill amends Fair Housing Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and jury selection standards to add sexual orientation and gender identity as classes protected against discrimination under such laws.

Equality Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2017

Equality Act This bill amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity among the prohibited categories of discrimination or segregation in places of public accommodation. The bill defines: "sex" to include a sex stereotype, sexual orientation or gender identity, and pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition; "sexual orientation" as homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality; and "gender identity" as gender-related identity, appearance, mannerisms, or characteristics, regardless of the individual's designated sex at birth. The bill expands the categories of public accommodations to include places or establishments that provide: exhibitions, recreation, exercise, amusement, gatherings, or displays; goods, services, or programs, including a store, a shopping center, an online retailer or service provider, a salon, a bank, a gas station, a food bank, a service or care center, a shelter, a travel agency, a funeral parlor, or a health care, accounting, or legal service; or transportation services. The bill prohibits "establishment" from being construed to be limited to a physical facility or place. The Department of Justice (DOJ) may bring a civil action if it receives a complaint from an individual who claims to be: denied equal utilization of a public facility owned, operated, or managed by a state (other than public schools or colleges) on account of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity; or denied admission to, or not permitted to continue attending, a public college by reason of sexual orientation or gender identity, thereby expanding DOJ's existing authority to bring such actions for complaints based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The bill revises public school desegregation standards to provide for the assignment of students without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill prohibits programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance from denying benefits to, or discriminating against, persons based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The bill prohibits employers with 15 or more employees from discriminating based on sexual orientation or gender identity, subject to the same exceptions and conditions that currently apply to unlawful employment practices based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Employers must recognize individuals in accordance with their gender identity if sex is a bona fide occupational qualification that is reasonably necessary to the normal operation of that particular business or enterprise. The bill provides government employees with protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. DOJ may intervene in equal protection actions in federal court on account of sexual orientation or gender identity. Protections against discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin shall include protections against discrimination based on: (1) an association with another person who is a member of such a protected class; or (2) a perception or belief, even if inaccurate, that an individual is a member of such a protected class. The bill prohibits the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 from providing a claim, defense, or basis for challenging such protections. The bill prohibits an individual from being denied access to a shared facility, including a restroom, a locker room, and a dressing room, that is in accordance with the individual's gender identity. The bill amends Fair Housing Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and jury selection standards to add sexual orientation and gender identity as classes protected against discrimination under such laws.

Pamela Hughes Patenaude, of New Hampshire, to be Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Nani A. Coloretti.

United States · United States Senate · 28 April 2017

HOME Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2017

Housing Opportunities Made Easier Act or the HOME Act This bill amends the Truth in Lending Act to deem mortgage appraisal services donated by a fee appraiser to an organization that is eligible to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions to be customary and reasonable.

Foster and Homeless Youth Food Security Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2017

Foster and Homeless Youth Food Security Act of 2017 This bill amends the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to modify certain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as the food stamp program) eligibility requirements for foster care and homeless youth who are enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education. The bill applies to foster care individuals or homeless individuals who are over 17 and not over 26 years of age, and enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education. The bill exempts the individuals from: (1) certain eligibility disqualification rules that apply to students enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education, and (2) SNAP work requirements. If the individual is enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education that provides the individual with housing that lacks an individualized cooking facility, the bill also: (1) modifies the definition of "food" to permit SNAP benefits to be used for certain meals prepared and served by the institution, and (2) permits the individual to be treated as a separate household for the purpose of SNAP benefits.

Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2018

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2017

Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2017 This bill authorizes local educational agencies to establish programs to educate children on the dangers of severe forms of trafficking in persons. Diplomatic or consular posts shall designate an employee to receive information from any person who was a victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons while in the United States. The Department of Health and Human Services may carry out a Human Trafficking Victims Reintegration Through Employment Program. Department of Justice (DOJ) victim services grants may be used for programs that provide trauma-informed care or long-term housing for: (1) youth transitioning from foster care, and (2) women or girls in underserved populations. Airlines that contract with the federal government shall provide personnel with training in recognizing human trafficking incidents. Federal Acquisition Institute curricula for the acquisition workforce shall include a course on the law relating to human trafficking and government contracting. The United States Advisory Council on Human Trafficking Council is extended to September 30, 2020. The bill sets forth agency actions to prevent funding of human trafficking. DOJ law enforcement grants may be used to designate at least one prosecutor for cases of severe forms of trafficking in persons. Civil damages awarded in an action brought for slavery or trafficking in persons are excluded from gross income. The Secretary of the Treasury and the United States Trade Representative are included in the Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking. The bill provides for transparency in U.S. Agency for International Development anti-trafficking expenditures. The bill authorizes appropriations through FY2021 for: (1) specified anti-trafficking programs and entities, and (2) U.S. Customs and Border Protection for on-site anti-trafficking training for airport and airline personnel.

100 by '50 Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2017

100 by '50 Act This bill calls for the United States to aggressively reduce carbon pollution as rapidly as practicable and achieve 100% clean and renewable energy by 2050. It provides financial support (e.g., grant programs and loans) for clean and renewable energy, including support for affordable zero-emission vehicle-based public transportation, solar energy, and energy efficiency retrofits in homes. The bill provides job training, unemployment compensation, health benefits, and pension and other benefits and services to adversely affected workers employed in the fossil fuel energy sector. The bill amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to create annual caps on fossil fuel electricity beginning in 2022 and ending in 2050 when it is phased out. The Department of Energy (DOE) must establish a grant program for energy storage and dispatchable energy technologies. The bill provides financial incentives (e.g., tax credits and grants) for clean and renewable energy, energy efficiency improvements, and energy storage. The bill amends the Clean Air Act to establish a zero-emission vehicle standard. In addition, it establishes: (1) a carbon fee to transition the commercial aviation, maritime transportation, and rail sectors away from fossil fuel usage; (2) grant programs for zero-emission vehicles; (3) a national highway decarbonization grant program; and (4) tax credits for electric vehicles, hybrid trucks, biofuels, and alternative fuels. DOE must also establish a zero-emission residential and commercial heating grant program. The bill: (1) terminates specified fossil fuel subsidies, and (2) creates a climate duty for carbon-intensive products imported from other countries. The Department of the Treasury must issue climate bonds. The proceeds of the bonds must be deposited in the Climate Fund, which may be used to carry out the bill.

Streamlining DHS Overhead Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2017

Streamlining DHS Overhead Act This bill amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish a Chief Facilities and Logistics Officer within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), who shall: (1) develop policies and procedures and provide program oversight to manage DHS property, equipment, and material resources; and (2) manage and execute mission support services within the National Capital Region for DHS real property, facilities, headquarters, and field activities. DHS shall develop: (1) an initial five-year regional real property strategy, which shall be geographically organized; (2) a subsequent five-year real property strategy; and (3) a department-wide policy implementing such strategies. Such strategies shall, among other things: identify opportunities to consolidate real property, optimize the usage of federal assets, and decrease the number of commercial leases and square footage within DHS's real property portfolio; provide alternate housing and consolidation plans to increase efficiency through joint use of DHS spaces while decreasing the reliance on and cost of leased space; concentrate on geographical areas with a significant DHS presence; and prioritize actions to be taken to improve the operations and management of DHS's real property inventory based on life-cycle cost estimations. The implementation policies shall require components: (1) to certify to DHS that such components have investigated all possibilities related to co-locating, consolidating, or partnering with other components before making any major real property acquisition or recommendation; and (2) acting through regional property managers, to report annually to DHS on underutilized space and identify space that may be made available for use by other components or federal or state agencies through reimbursable or other agreements. Each component shall identify a senior career employee to serve as the property manager for each geographic region.

Promoting and supporting the goals and ideals of the Fair Housing Act and recognizing April 2017 as Fair Housing Month, which includes bringing attention to the discrimination faced by every-day Americans in the United States in housing and housing-related transactions on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, familial status, disability, and religion.

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2017

Supports: (1) the goals and values of the 49th anniversary of the enactment of the Fair Housing Act and the 29th anniversary of the enactment of the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, and (2) activities to celebrate the historical milestones represented by such anniversaries.

HOMeS Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2017

Housing Our Military Servicemembers Act of 2017 or the HOMeS Act of 2017 This bill amends the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to direct the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide incentives to geographic areas under the Continuum of Care program for using funds for activities proven to be effective at reducing homelessness for former servicemembers of the Armed Forces. HUD shall develop a strategy to identify and eliminate homelessness among former servicemembers who are not eligible for the veterans affairs supported housing (HUD-VASH) program under the United States Housing Act of 1937 and other programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs.