Housing

TRANSPORTATION AND HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008

United States · United States Senate · 3 May 2007

Borrower's Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 3 May 2007

Borrower's Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the Truth in Lending Act to deem a mortgage broker, in the case of a home mortgage loan, to have a fiduciary relationship with the consumer. Subjects each such mortgage broker to all federal and state requirements for fiduciaries. Requires each mortgage originator, in addition to the duties imposed by federal and state requirements, to act with respect to each home mortgage loan: (1) with reasonable skill, care, and diligence; and (2) in good faith and with fair dealing in any transaction, practice, or with associated course of business. Requires a mortgage originator, before entering into or otherwise facilitating a home mortgage loan, to verify the borrower's reasonable ability to pay the principal and interest, real estate taxes, and homeowners insurance fees and premiums. Prescribes a formula for determining ability to pay variable mortgage rates. Makes the lender liable for acts, omissions, and representations of a mortgage broker in connection with any rate spread mortgage loan the broker sells or delivers to the lender. Prohibits a mortgage originator from steering a consumer to home mortgage loan rates, charges, principal amount, or prepayment terms not reasonably advantageous to the consumer. Prescribes mortgage originator duties to consumers. Prohibits specified mortgage originator conduct, especially entering into a home mortgage loan when the originator has reason to believe that the appraiser of the property securing the loan failed to act in good faith and fair dealing in its appraisal. Prohibits a mortgage originator from: (1) seeking to influence an appraiser or otherwise to encourage a targeted value; or (2) selecting an appraiser on the expectation that the appraiser would provide a targeted value. Requires the mortgage originator to provide a copy of the appraisal report to a home mortgage loan applicant, whether credit is granted, denied, or the application was withdrawn.

FHA Manufactured Housing Loan Modernization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 3 May 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.

Rural Broadband Initiative Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 3 May 2007

Rural Broadband Initiative Act of 2007 - Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to establish in the Department of Agriculture the Office of Rural Broadband Initiatives, to be headed by the Under Secretary for Rural Broadband Initiatives. States that the Under Secretary shall: (1) administer all rural broadband-related grant and loan programs previously administered by the Administrator of the Rural Utilities Service, including the rural broadband access loan and loan guarantee program and the community connect grant program; (2) conduct rural outreach; (3) foster development of a comprehensive rural broadband strategic vision; (4) assess relevant technologies; (5) serve as a single information source for all federal rural broadband programs and services; and (6) provide technical assistance to state, regional, and local governments to develop broadband deployment strategies. Directs the Under Secretary to submit: (1) to the President and to Congress a comprehensive rural broadband strategy report; and (2) to Congress a plan for a Rural Broadband Advisory Panel. Establishes in the Treasury the National Rural Broadband Innovation Fund.

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand eligibility for veterans' mortgage life insurance to include members of the Armed Forced receiving specially adapted housing assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2007

Makes eligible for veterans' mortgage life insurance members of the Armed Forces receiving specially adapted housing assistance through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to clarify student housing eligible for the low-income housing credit, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 2007

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain full-time students who are single parents and their children to live in housing units eligible for the low-income housing tax credit provided that their children are not dependents of another individual (other than a parent of such children).

Predatory Mortgage Lending Practices Reduction Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 2007

Predatory Mortgage Lending Practices Reduction Act - Amends the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act of 1974 to prohibit any person, in connection with a subprime federally related mortgage loan, from providing mortgage lending services or mortgage brokerage services unless such person is certified by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development as having been adequately trained with regard to subprime lending. Amends the Truth in Lending Act to require lenders to establish a best practices plan, meeting certain criteria, to ensure compliance with such Act for high cost mortgages. Proscribes unfair or deceptive acts or practices in providing: (1) mortgage lending services for either a subprime federally related mortgage loan; (2) mortgage brokerage services for such a loan; and (3) appraisal of a property offered as security for repayment of the loan. Sets forth civil penalties for violations. Consumer Fairness Act - Amends the Consumer Credit Protection Act to declare unenforceable a written provision in any consumer contract or transaction which requires binding arbitration to resolve any controversy arising out of such transaction or contract, or the refusal to perform all or any part of the transaction. (Permits post-controversy arbitration agreements.) Amends the Community Development Banking and Financial Institutions Act of 1994 to authorize the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund to make grants to nonprofit community development corporations to educate and train borrowers and community groups regarding illegal and inappropriate predatory lending practices.

STOP FRAUD Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2007

Stopping Mortgage Transactions which Operate to Promote Fraud, Risk, Abuse and Underdevelopment Act, or the STOP FRAUD Act - Amends federal criminal law to make it unlawful for any mortgage professional to: (1) defraud any natural person or financial institution regarding an offer of consumer credit secured by an interest either in real property or in personal property used as a principal dwelling; or (2) falsely obtain money or property from a natural person in connection with an extension of consumer credit secured by an interest in such property. Subjects violations of this Act to civil and criminal penalties. Directs the Attorney General to establish: (1) a system for authorized mortgage professionals to receive updates from federal law enforcement agencies on suspicious activity trends in the mortgage industry and mortgage fraud-related convictions; (2) a Debarred or Censured Mortgage Professional Database that may be accessed to determine the federal and state bar status of mortgage professionals; and (3) grants to assist law enforcement agencies establish and improve mortgage fraud task forces. Grants whistleblower protection to personnel of a widely accepted private certification board. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide tenants, homeowners, and other consumers with mortgage fraud counseling. Directs the Secretary to provide grants to state appraisal agencies to improve the monitoring and enforcement of housing appraisal regulations. Sets forth additional rights of borrowers in foreclosure proceedings.

BEYOND TRAILERS: CREATING A MORE FLEXIBLE, EFFICIENT, AND COST-EFFECTIVE FEDERAL DISASTER HOUSING PROGRAM

United States · United States Senate · 24 April 2007

Supporting home ownership and responsible lending.

United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2007

Expresses the sense of Congress that legislation should be enacted that protects buyers who have been victims of unscrupulous mortgage brokers and lenders. Urges that such legislation: (1) include an anti-predatory lending provision that bans unfair and deceptive practices; (2) require lenders to evaluate a borrower's ability to pay over the life of the loan (at the fully indexed rate for the fully amortized amount); (3) establish federal regulations regarding licensing, education, and experience requirements for mortgage brokers and loan officers in non-bank companies; (4) require that disclosures be written in plain language and prominently displayed in a manner that is visually clear and effectively communicates the intended information to the potential borrower; (5) reduce or eliminate prepayment penalties; (6) notify potential home buyers of lenders or brokers with high foreclosure rates; and (7) mandate pre-loan counseling.

Hope Fund Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2007

Hope Fund Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make a grant to the National Council of La Raza to provide technical and financial assistance to local non-profit organizations to undertake community development and affordable housing projects and programs serving low- and moderate-income households, particularly through organizations located in neighborhoods with substantial populations of income-disadvantaged households of Hispanic origin. Authorizes the National Council of La Raza, or the Raza Development Fund, to use such funds to: (1) provide technical and financial assistance for site acquisition and development, construction financing, and short- and long-term financing for housing, community facilities, and economic development; (2) leverage capital from private entities, including private financial institutions, insurance companies, and private philanthropic organizations; and (3) provide technical assistance, training, support, and advice to develop the management, financial, and administrative capabilities of housing development organizations serving low-income households, including Hispanic households.

Workforce Housing Construction for the GO Zone Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2007

Workforce Housing Construction for the GO Zone Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) extend through 2010 the placed-in-service date requirement for buildings in the Gulf Opportunity Zone (GO Zone) for purposes of the low-income housing tax credit; (2) allow a low-income housing tax credit for buildings in the GO Zone, the Rita GO Zone, or the Wilma GO Zone (GO Zones) during a specified 10-year period; (3) provide a basis adjustment for low-income housing projects in the GO Zones; (4) exclude Community Development Block Grant funds from consideration in determining whether GO Zone buildings are federally subsidized; and (5) modify certain rules relating to tax-exempt financing of GO Zone buildings.

Rural Housing and Economic Development Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2007

Rural Housing and Economic Development Improvement Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, through the Office of Rural Housing and Economic Development, to implement an assistance program to support innovative housing and economic development activities in rural areas by: (1) Indian tribes; (2) state housing finance agencies; (3) state community or economic development agencies; (4) local nonprofit organizations; and (5) community development corporations.

Housing Assistance Council Authorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2007

Housing Assistance Council Authorization Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide financial assistance to the Housing Assistance Council to develop the capacity of community-based housing development organizations to undertake community development and affordable housing projects and programs in rural areas. Authorizes the Council to use such assistance for rural community-based housing development organizations to acquire: (1) technical assistance, training, support, and advice to develop business and administrative capabilities; and (2) loans, grants, or other financial assistance to carry out community development and affordable housing activities for low- and moderate-income families.

Specialty Crops Competition Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Specialty Crops Competition Act of 2007 - Defines "specialty crop" as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, nursery crops, floriculture, and horticulture. Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act to provide for marketing order specialty crop food safety programs. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) carry out fruit and vegetable market news activities; (2) make grants to states to enhance specialty crop competitiveness; (3) prepare a foreign market access strategy plan; (4) establish in the Department of Agriculture an office for the protection of intellectual property rights in plants and plant-derived materials; (5) make grants for market analysis of antidumping and countervailing duty cases; (6) establish a program of specialty crop research and grants; (7) establish an invasive pest threat identification and mitigation program; (8) establish the national clean plant network to provide diagnostic and pathogen elimination services; (9) establish the nutrition education program review committee; (10) carry out an integrated pest management initiative; and (11) carry out a specialty crop census every five years. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to obligate funds for specialty crop operating loans. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to: (1) increase and extend specialty crop technical assistance; (2) make nursery tree growers eligible for tree program assistance; (3) provide for increased fruit, vegetable, and specialty crop purchases; and (4) remove the income limitation from the environmental quality incentives program. Amends the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 to increase and extend funding for value-added agricultural market development grants. Revises specified plant patent provisions. Amends the Plant Protection Act to revise compensation provisions. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to restore import and entry agricultural inspection functions to the Department of Agriculture. Establishes the international agricultural inspection program within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Amends the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 to direct the Secretary to provide emergency assistance to specialty crop producers who suffer qualifying losses in disaster-designated counties. Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to expand the fresh fruit and vegetable program. Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to include food stamp nutrition education (as defined by this Act) within the scope of the food stamp program. Establishes a food stamp fruit and vegetable electronic benefit transfer pilot program. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) make transportation infrastructure grants to eligible state and local governments, shippers, and specialty crop producers; and (2) carry out food safety initiatives. Establishes in the Department an Office of Pest Management Policy. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to provide loans and grants for housing farm laborers admitted for temporary residence (H-2A visas).

Fairness for Disabled Students Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

Fairness for Disabled Students Act of 2007 - Amends federal housing law to exempt from the prohibition against specified public housing rental assistance ("Section 8 assistance") persons with disabilities who were not receiving such assistance as of November 30, 2005.

Home for the Brave Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 2007

A Home for the Brave Act - Amends the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 to require the appropriate federal financial supervisory agency, when assessing the record of a financial institution, to take into account capital investments, low interest loans, loan participation, technical assistance, and grants by the institution to support or enable: (1) any veteran to purchase a home for use as the principal residence of the veteran; and (2) any entity that is establishing housing opportunities or assisted living facilities for veterans to carry out such activities.

Public Safety Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Public Safety Act - Prohibits funds provided by the federal government to a state or local government for the purpose of providing core correctional services from being used to contract with private contractors or vendors to provide such services. Defines "core correctional services" as the housing, safeguarding, protecting, and disciplining of persons charged with or convicted of an offense. Amends the federal criminal code to require the Bureau of Prisons to provide that: (1) any penal or correctional facility or institution, except a facility for nonprofit community correctional confinement (such as halfway houses), confining any person convicted of any offense against the United States shall be under the direction of the Director of the Bureau and shall be managed and maintained by federal, state, or local government employees; and (2) the housing, safeguarding, protection, and disciplining of any person charged with or convicted of any offense against the United States (with that exception) shall be conducted and carried out by federal, state, or local government employees.

Child Care Construction and Renovation Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2007

Child Care Construction and Renovation Act of 2007 - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to authorize the use of community development block grants to construct and renovate child care facilities. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to insure mortgages for: (1) new or rehabilitated child care and development facilities, including for fire safety equipment loans; and (2) acquiring or refinancing debt of existing child care facilities. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to study the availability of secondary markets for mortgages on child care facilities. Authorizes HUD grants to eligible nonprofit organizations for technical and financial assistance to assist eligible child care providers in acquiring or improving facilities or equipment. Applies the provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act to actions taken under this Act.

Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 16 April 2007

Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007 - Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act with respect to advanced lighting technologies. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act with respect to the expediting of new energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 with respect to high efficiency vehicles, advanced batteries, and energy storage. United States Energy Storage Competitiveness Act of 2007 - Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) implement a research, development, and demonstration program to support the ability of the United States to remain globally competitive in energy storage systems for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution; and (2) establish an Energy Storage Advisory Council. Instructs the Secretary to develop a strategic plan to achieve specified national goals to reduce gasoline usage. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act, the Energy Conservation and Production Act, and the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act with respect to: (1) federal fleet conservation requirements; (2) requirements for federal purchase of renewable energy-generated electricity; (3) energy savings performance contracts; (4) energy management requirements for federal buildings; (5) combined heat and power and district energy installations at federal sites; (6) federal building energy efficiency performance standards; and (7) application of the International Energy Conservation Code to public and assisted housing. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 with respect to utility energy efficiency programs. Instructs the Secretary to: (1) provide technical assistance regarding implementation of the energy efficiency and demand response programs to state energy offices, public utility regulatory commissions, and nonregulated utilities; and (2) award grants to institutions of higher education to implement projects to improve energy efficiency on institution grounds. Declares that Congress encourages each local educational agency receiving certain federal funds to develop a policy to reduce the incidence of school bus idling.

Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 2007

Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces determined to have a total disability permanent in nature which was incurred or aggravated in the line of active duty, to furnish home improvements and structural alterations for the member for the disability while the member is hospitalized or receiving outpatient care, medical services, or treatment, if the Secretary determines that the member is likely to be discharged or released from the Armed Forces for such disability. Authorizes the provision of specially adapted housing assistance for: (1) disabled veterans whose disability is due to a severe burn injury; and (2) disabled members residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Makes veterans and members with a severe burn disability eligible for automobile and automotive adaptive equipment assistance.

New Homestead Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 2007

New Homestead Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Education to repay a specified percentage (up to $2,000 per year) of certain education loans to an individual who completes a degree and both resides and is employed for at least five years in an area outside a metropolitan statistical area which for 20 years has a net out-migration of inhabitants of at least 10% of the county population (qualifying county). Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a: (1) tax credit for the lesser of $5,000 or 10% of the purchase price of a principal residence in a qualifying county; and (2) capital loss deduction with respect to a sale or exchange of a principal residence in a qualifying county. Provides for the creation of tax-exempt individual homestead accounts, funded by individual cash contributions and matching federal contributions according to a specified formula, whose tax-free distributions after five years are used by residents of qualifying counties for qualified higher education or medical expenses, first-time homebuyer or business capitalization costs, or rollovers. Establishes a rural investment tax credit of 70% of the present value of new buildings (including rehabilitation projects) or 30% of the present value of existing buildings. Establishes a qualified rural small business investment credit of 30% of expenditures for starting or expanding a business, including costs for capital, plant and equipment, inventory expenses, and wages, but not including interest costs. Provides for accelerated depreciation of business property in rural investment projects. New Homestead Venture Capital Fund Act - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to establish the New Homestead Venture Capital Fund (Fund), owned by private investors, to generate and provide equity capital to rural businesses in qualifying counties. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide funding and guarantees for private investors in the Fund.

Federal Housing Enterprise Regulatory Reform Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 2007

Federal Housing Enterprise Regulatory Reform Act of 2007 - Amends the Federal Housing Enterprises Financial Safety and Soundness Act of 1992 to establish in lieu of the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), an independent Federal Housing Enterprise Regulatory Agency, headed by a Director, which shall have authority over: the Federal Home Loan Banks, the Finance Facility, the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac). Establishes the Federal Housing Enterprise Board, without executive authority, to advise the Director. Sets forth operating, administrative, and regulatory provisions of the Agency, including: (1) assessment authority; (2) authority to limit nonmission-related assets; (3) minimum and critical capital levels; (4) mandatory affordable housing focused portfolios; (5) risk-based capital test; (6) capital classifications and undercapitalized enterprises; (7) enforcement actions and penalties; (8) golden parachutes and (9) mandatory reporting of fraudulent loans. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to require registration of enterprise securities. Requires prior approval by the Director for any initial enterprise product offering. Sets forth conforming loan limitations for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (enterprises). Makes it the duty of such enterprises to increase mortgage investments liquidity and improve the distribution of investment capital available for mortgage financing for underserved markets. Instructs the Director to establish an annual home purchase goal for the purchase by each enterprise of mortgage financing of owner-occupied single family dwelling units. Prescribes requirements for prompt corrective and enforcement actions. Amends the Federal Home Loan Bank Act to: (1) revise criteria for Federal Home Loan Bank Board directors, providing for at least two independent directors; and (2) establish the Federal Home Loan Bank Finance Facility. Authorizes the Facility to issue and service consolidated Federal Home Loan Bank obligations. Exempts the Federal Home Loan Banks from certain securities reporting requirements. Authorizes reduction of Federal Home Loan Bank districts by voluntary merger. Transfers to such Facility the functions of the Office of Finance of the Federal Home Loan Banks. Abolishes: (1) the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight of the Department of Housing and Urban Development; and (2) the Federal Housing Finance Board. Requires the Director to review annually the Freddie Mac Foundation and the Office of Corporate Giving of the Federal National Mortgage Corporation ("Fannie Mae Foundation") to ensure that they are not engaged in impermissible lobbying activities.

Robert M. Couch, of Alabama, to be General Counsel of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, vice Keith E. Gottfried, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 10 April 2007

Housing America's Workforce Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2007

Housing America's Workforce Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers a business tax credit for up to 50 percent of the qualified housing expenses paid for the benefit of their employees. Defines "qualified housing expenses" to include homeownership assistance and rental assistance. Limits the amount of such credit to the lesser of $10,000 or six percent of an employee's home purchase price, or up to $2,000 for rental assistance. Excludes from employee gross income the value of employer-paid housing assistance. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to award grants in FY2008-FY2010, on a competitive basis, to nonprofit housing organizations or local governments for certain costs, including operating costs and technical assistance costs, of employer-assisted housing programs. Requires the Secretary to establish a national clearinghouse, including a website, to provide information about employer-assisted housing programs to federal, state, and local governments and other interested entities. Directs the Comptroller General to conduct a national evaluation of employer-assisted housing programs and provide to the Secretary an interim report by January 1, 2011, and final report by December 31, 2012.

Homes for Heroes Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 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.

HOUSEHOLD INCOMES AND HOUSING COSTS: A NEW SQUEEZE FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 4 April 2007

Rural RISE Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Rural Investment to Strengthen our Economy Act of 2007 or Rural RISE Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a capital loss deduction with respect to the sale or exchange of a principal residence in certain rural areas; and (2) expand the work opportunity tax credit to include a qualified small business employee as a targeted group member. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to carry out a program for the forgiveness of student loans for certain rural students who obtain a degree. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a: (1) rural entrepreneurship and microenterprise program; and (2) rural regional entrepreneurship program. Requires the Secretary of Labor to award grants to: (1) regional skill alliances (business consortia) serving certain rural areas to assist in the development of job skills necessary for employment in specific industries; and (2) states to assist businesses, organizations, and agencies representing such industries in conducting planning to form such alliances.

Healthy Places Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Healthy Places Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an interagency working group to discuss environmental health concerns, particularly concerns disproportionately affecting disadvantaged populations. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to establish a program at the National Center of Environmental Health at CDC focused on advancing the field of health impact assessment. Requires the Director to develop guidance for the assessment of potential health effects of land use, housing, and transportation policy and plans. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to: (1) establish a program to provide funding and technical assistance to state or local governments affected or potentially affected by an activity or proposed activity to prepare health impact assessments; and (2) establish and maintain a health impact assessment database. Requires the Director to establish a grant program to award grants to state or local communities for environmental health improvement activities. Requires grantees to: (1) establish a planning and prioritizing council; and (2) conduct environmental health assessment. Requires the Secretary to provide grants to public or private nonprofit institutions to conduct and coordinate research on the built environment and its influence on individual and population-based health.

Rural Broadband Initiative Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Rural Broadband Initiative Act of 2007 - Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to establish in the Department of Agriculture the Office of Rural Broadband Initiatives, to be headed by the Under Secretary for Rural Broadband Initiatives. States that the Under Secretary shall: (1) administer all rural broadband-related grant and loan programs previously administered by the Administrator of the Rural Utilities Service, including the rural broadband access loan and loan guarantee program and the community connect grant program; (2) conduct rural outreach; (3) foster development of a comprehensive rural broadband strategic vision; (4) assess relevant technologies; (5) serve as a single information source for all federal rural broadband programs and services; and (6) provide technical assistance to state, regional, and local governments to develop broadband deployment strategies. Directs the Under Secretary to submit: (1) to the President and to Congress a comprehensive rural broadband strategy report; and (2) to Congress a plan for a Rural Broadband Advisory Panel. Establishes in the Treasury the National Rural Broadband Innovation Fund.

Youth Crime Deterrence Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Youth Crime Deterrence Act of 2007 - Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to set forth additional requirements for state plans under the juvenile justice and delinquency prevention program (program) relating to juvenile truancy from detention or placement settings and housing, reentry and aftercare services for juveniles released from the juvenile justice system. Authorizes the Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to make grants to or contracts with public and nonprofit private agencies for: (1) family and community programs to prevent and reduce the participation of juveniles in criminal gangs; (2) treatment programs for juvenile offenders who are victims of child abuse or neglect and their families; and (3) mentoring programs for at-risk juveniles. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to states for certain challenge activities under the program. Defines "challenge activity" as a state program maintained to: (1) provide juveniles in the juvenile justice system with basic health, mental health, and education services; (2) increase community-based alternatives to incarceration of juveniles; (3) provide secure settings for the placement of violent juvenile offenders; (4) establish and operate a state ombudsmen office for monitoring out-of-home care for juveniles; or (5) adopt policies for alternatives to suspension and expulsion from school and for prohibiting discrimination against juveniles in program placement or treatment based on perceived or actual sexual orientation or gender identity.

Nuclear Disarmament and Economic Conversion Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Nuclear Disarmament and Economic Conversion Act of 2007 - Requires the U.S. Government to: (1) disable and dismantle all its nuclear weapons and refrain from replacing them at any time with weapons of mass destruction; (2) undertake vigorous good faith efforts to eliminate war, armed conflict, and all military operations; (3) actively promote policies to induce all other countries to join in these commitments for world peace and security; and (4) redirect resources that are currently being used for nuclear weapons programs to constructive, ecologically beneficial peacetime activities and to address human and infrastructure needs such as housing, health care, education, agriculture, and environmental restoration. Makes this Act effective when the President certifies to Congress that all foreign countries possessing nuclear weapons have established legal requirements comparable to those set forth in this Act.

National Emergency Centers Establishment Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

National Emergency Centers Establishment Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish at least six national emergency centers on military installations to use existing infrastructure to provide: (1) temporary housing, medical, and humanitarian assistance to individuals and families dislocated due to an emergency or major disaster; and (2) centralized locations for the training of first responders and the coordination of preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Lists minimum requirements for sites for such centers, including that they be capable of: (1) meeting for an extended period the housing, health, transportation, education, public works, humanitarian, and other transition needs of a large number of individuals affected; (2) being scaled up or down to accommodate major disaster preparedness and response drills, operations, and procedures; (3) housing existing permanent structures necessary to meet training and first responders coordination requirements during non-disaster periods; and (4) hosting the infrastructure necessary to rapidly adjust to temporary housing, medical, and humanitarian assistance needs. Sets forth center location requirements, including requiring the Secretary to designate closed military installations as sites whenever possible and to designate portions of existing military installations as centers otherwise.

Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2007 - Amends the National Housing Act to: (1) modify requirements governing the maximum principal loan obligation; (2) extend the mortgage term; and (3) revise requirements for cash downpayment by the mortgagor in the eligibility criteria for mortgage insurance, including mortgage insurance premiums for zero- and lower-downpayment borrowers who obtain a mortgage secured by a one- to four-family dwelling. Distinguishes standard risk mortgages secured by a one- to four-family dwelling from higher-risk mortgages. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to: (1) establish underwriting standards for higher-risk mortgages for mortgagors with a credit score equivalent to a FICO score of less than 560; (2) provide for flexible premium rate variations according to the credit risk associated with the type of mortgage product being insured; and (2) create certain payment incentives, both discretionary and mandatory. Makes certain borrower protections, including mortgagee disclosures and mortgagor counseling, mandatory for higher risk mortgages. Permits the Secretary to insure any mortgage covering a one-family unit in a condominium project if the project has a certain HUD-insured blanket mortgage. Revises requirements for the Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) Fund, specifying operating goals among other things. Makes insurance of a Native Hawaiian or Indian reservation mortgage the obligation of the MMI Fund (instead of the General Insurance Fund). Eliminates the limitation placed upon the aggregate number of home equity conversion mortgages insured under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to insure a home equity conversion mortgage when its primary purpose is to enable an elderly mortgagor to purchase a one- to four-family dwelling in which the mortgagor will occupy one of the units. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements, for a certain period, to insure up to 100% of certain mortgages for a single family residence located in a major disaster area. Revises multifamily housing mortgage limits in high cost areas. Requires the Secretary to consider industry standard appraisal practices in determining the market value of any multifamily real property or multifamily loan for any noncompetitive sale to a state or local government entity.

Section 8 Voucher Reform Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Section 8 Voucher Reform Act of 2007 - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to revise requirements for public housing agency inspections of each dwelling unit for which a housing assistance payment contract is established. Requires an initial inspection before any assistance payment is made. Allows such payments if failure to meet standards is a result only of non-life threatening conditions. Requires biennial inspections to determine compliance instead of the current annual inspections. Prescribes requirements for reviews and calculation of family income. Prescribes eligibility criteria for assistance based upon assets and income. Revises requirements governing: (1) assistance to low-income working families; (2) tenant-based contract renewals; (3) administrative fees; and (5) the home ownership downpayment grant program. Authorizes a public housing agency to report to certain consumer reporting agencies information regarding the past rent payment history of a family receiving housing choice vouchers. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish standards and procedures for assessing the performance of public housing agencies in carrying out the programs for tenant-based rental assistance and for homeownership assistance, including periodic assessments. Revises the rent calculation for housing assistance payment contracts.

Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2007 - Amends the National Housing Act to: (1) modify guidelines governing the maximum principal loan obligation; (2) extend the mortgage term; and (3) revise requirements for cash payment by the mortgagor in the eligibility criteria for mortgage insurance. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reinstate the current downpayment requirement in the event of increased defaults. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a mortgage insurance premium structure involving a single premium payment collected prior to the insurance of the mortgage that may vary during the mortgage term as long as the basis for determining the variable rate is established before the execution of the mortgage. Sets forth maximum up-front premium amounts. Permits the Secretary to insure any mortgage covering a one-family unit in a condominium project if the project has a certain HUD-insured blanket mortgage. Revises requirements for the Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) Fund. Limits the authority of the Secretary to enter into commitments for loan guarantees. Makes insurance of a Native Hawaiian or Indian reservation mortgage the obligation of the MMI Fund (instead of the General Insurance Fund). Eliminates the limitation placed upon the aggregate number of home equity conversion mortgages insured under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to insure a home equity conversion mortgage when its primary purpose is to enable an elderly mortgagor to purchase a one- to four-family dwelling in which the mortgagor will occupy one of the units. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements to insure temporarily certain mortgages for a single family residence located within a presidentially declared major disaster area. Redefines mortgagee to allow participation in the federal mortgage insurance program by state-licensed mortgage brokers and correspondent lenders who make, underwrite, or service mortgage loans.

Housing America's Workforce Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2007

Housing America's Workforce Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers a business tax credit for up to 50 percent of the qualified housing expenses paid for the benefit of their employees. Defines "qualified housing expenses" to include homeownership assistance and rental assistance. Limits the amount of such credit to the lesser of $10,000 or six percent of an employee's home purchase price, or up to $2,000 for rental assistance. Excludes from employee gross income the value of employer-paid housing assistance. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to award grants in FY2008-FY2010, on a competitive basis, to nonprofit housing organizations or local governments for certain costs, including operating costs and technical assistance costs, of employer-assisted housing programs. Requires the Secretary to establish a national clearinghouse, including a website, to provide information about employer-assisted housing programs to federal, state, and local governments and other interested entities. Directs the Comptroller General to conduct a national evaluation of employer-assisted housing programs and provide to the Secretary an interim report by January 1, 2011, and final report by December 31, 2012.

Solar Opportunity and Local Access Rights Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 March 2007

Solar Opportunity and Local Access Rights Act - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require each state regulatory authority with ratemaking authority, and each nonregulated electric utility, to conduct a hearing, and on the basis of such hearing, adopt a net metering standard. Requires retail electric suppliers to offer to arrange to make net metering available to retail customers on a first-come-first-served basis. Prescribes implementation requirements regarding: (1) net energy measurement; (2) billing practices; (3) ownership of credits; (4) safety and performance standards; and (5) determination of compliance. Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to publish model interconnection standards, according to specified requirements, for the physical connection between local distribution systems and qualified generation units and qualified electric generation units that do not exceed 20,000 kilowatts of capacity. Requires states to adopt such model standards, subject to FERC approval. Prohibits a state or nonregulated utility from adopting or enforcing any standard or requirement concerning net metering or interconnection that restricts access to the electric power transmission or local distribution system by qualified generators beyond those established under this Act. Allows states to adopt or enforce additional incentives or requirements to encourage qualified generation and net metering, including any that afford: (1) greater access to the electric power transmission and local distribution systems by qualified generators; or (2) greater compensation or credit for electricity generated by qualified generators. Amends federal law governing administrative services for public buildings and properties to authorize a contract for renewable energy for a maximum period of 30 years. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to issue regulations to prohibit: (1) excessive fees for solar energy systems building permits; and (2) any restriction impairing the ability of the owner or lessee of a one-family residential structure to install or use a solar energy system on such property. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations also requiring that the application for approval of such a system: (1) be processed and approved in the same manner as an application for approval of an architectural modification to the property; and (2) not be willfully avoided or delayed.

District of Columbia Personal Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 March 2007

District of Columbia Personal Protection Act - Amends specified law prohibiting the killing of wild birds and wild animals in the District of Columbia to declare that nothing in it or any other provision of law shall authorize or be construed to permit the Council, the Mayor, or any governmental or regulatory authority of the District to prohibit, constructively prohibit, or unduly burden the ability of persons otherwise not prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law from acquiring, possessing in their homes or businesses, or using for sporting, self-protection or other lawful purposes, any firearm neither prohibited by federal law nor subject to the National Firearms Act. Denies the District any authority to enact laws or regulations that discourage or eliminate the private ownership or use of firearms. Amends the Firearms Control Regulations Act of 1975 to repeal the definition of a machine gun as any firearm which shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily converted or restored to shoot semiautomatically, more than 12 shots without manual reloading. (Thus repeals the ban on semiautomatic weapons.) Redefines "machine gun" to include the frame or receiver of any such weapon, any part designed and intended solely and exclusively, or combination of parts designed and intended, for use in converting a weapon into a machine gun, and any combination of parts from which a machine gun can be assembled if such parts are in the possession or under the control of a person. Repeals the District's: (1) registration requirement for possession of firearms; (2) prohibition on possession of handgun restricted pistol bullets; and (3) requirement that, under certain conditions, firearms in the possession of certain individuals must be kept unloaded, disassembled, or with the trigger locked. Repeals the definition of restricted pistol bullet as any bullet designed for use in a pistol which, when fired from a pistol with a barrel of five inches or less in length, is capable of penetrating commercially available body armor with a penetration resistance equal to or greater than that of 18 layers of kevlar. Maintains the current ban on the possession and control of a sawed-off shotgun, machine gun, or short-barreled rifle. Eliminates criminal penalties for possessing an unregistered firearm. Amends federal law to eliminate criminal penalties for carrying a pistol whether loaded or unloaded in one's dwelling house, place of business, or on land possessed by such person. Amends the District of Columbia Code to extend to firearms generally (currently, only to pistols) the prohibition against carrying such a weapon either openly or concealed within the District without a license issued pursuant to D.C. law. Specifies exceptions to the prohibition against carrying concealed weapons in the District.

Fair FHA Appraisals Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 March 2007

Fair FHA Appraisals Act of 2007 - Amends the National Housing Act to subject to civil money penalties actions that improperly influence appraisals for an FHA insured mortgage for a small-family residence by compensating, instructing, inducing, coercing, or intimidating any person who conducts an appraisal in connection with such mortgage in order to cause the appraised value to be based on any other factor other than the independent judgment exercised in accordance with professional standards. Modifies FHA mortgage insurance appraisal standards to require that: (1) the appraisal be conducted by an appraiser selected by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development on a rotating basis, mortgage-by-mortgage, from a list of appraisers (blind draws) developed by the Secretary; and (2) an authorized mortgagee use only appraisers selected in accordance with such list. Restricts use by a qualified appraiser of the assistance of others to cases where a limited number of appraisals is conducted within a limited rural area.

Fighting Gangs and Empowering Youth Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 2007

Fighting Gangs and Empowering Youth Act of 2007 - Reauthorizes programs for combating criminal gangs, including after-school programs, programs for safe and drug-free schools and communities, gang resistance education and training programs, and adult and juvenile offender state and local reentry demonstration projects. Establishes or increases funding for criminal gang-related programs, including: (1) demonstration grants to public and private entities for innovative approaches to combat gang activity; (2) programs that target certain at-risk youth and juvenile offenders ages 11 to 19; (3) state studies of parole or post-incarceration supervision violations and revocations; (4) substance abuse treatment; (5) mentoring grants to nonprofit organizations; (6) transition training for incarcerated youth offenders; (7) gang activity policing grants; (8) grants to prosecutors and law enforcement officials to combat violent crime and protect witnesses; and (9) the National Youth Gang Survey. Public and Assisted Housing Gang Elimination Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants to public housing agencies and private, for-profit and nonprofit owners of federally assisted low-income housing for use in eliminating gang-related crime. Authorizes the Attorney General to: (1) designate and provide assistance to high-intensity gang activity areas; and (2) expand the Project Safe Neighborhoods program to require U.S. attorneys to identify and prosecute criminal street gangs in their respective districts. Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) expand the definition of "criminal street gang"; (2) prohibit the recruitment or solicitation of persons to participate in a criminal street gang; (3) impose enhanced penalties for committing violent crimes in furtherance or in aid of a criminal street gang and for use of firearms by felons with multiple felony convictions for violent crimes and drug offenses; (4) increase penalties for use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire or other felony crimes of violence; and (5) increase penalties for violent crimes in aid of racketeering activities. Extends the limitation period for prosecuting certain noncapital violent crimes. Requires the U.S. Sentencing Commission to review and revise guidelines relating to violent gang-related crimes. Provides for certain studies and reports relating to criminal gangs, including reports distinguishing criminal offenses committed by juveniles.

Native American Home Ownership Opportunity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 2007

Native American Home Ownership Opportunity Act of 2007 - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 to extend through FY2012 the authorization of appropriations to the Indian Housing Loan Guarantee Fund for loan guarantees for Native American housing.

Fighting Gangs and Empowering Youth Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 2007

Fighting Gangs and Empowering Youth Act of 2007 - Reauthorizes programs for combating criminal gangs, including after-school programs, programs for safe and drug-free schools and communities, gang resistance education and training programs, and adult and juvenile offender state and local reentry demonstration projects. Establishes or increases funding for criminal gang-related programs, including: (1) demonstration grants to public and private entities for innovative approaches to combat gang activity; (2) programs that target certain at-risk youth and juvenile offenders ages 11 to 19; (3) state studies of parole or post-incarceration supervision violations and revocations; (4) substance abuse treatment; (5) mentoring grants to nonprofit organizations; (6) transition training for incarcerated youth offenders; (7) gang activity policing grants; (8) grants to prosecutors and law enforcement officials to combat violent crime and protect witnesses; and (9) the National Youth Gang Survey. Public and Assisted Housing Gang Elimination Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants to public housing agencies and private, for-profit and nonprofit owners of federally assisted low-income housing for use in eliminating gang-related crime. Authorizes the Attorney General to: (1) designate and provide assistance to high-intensity gang activity areas; and (2) expand the Project Safe Neighborhoods program to require U.S. attorneys to identify and prosecute criminal street gangs in their respective districts. Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) expand the definition of "criminal street gang"; (2) prohibit the recruitment or solicitation of persons to participate in a criminal street gang; (3) impose enhanced penalties for committing violent crimes in furtherance or in aid of a criminal street gang and for use of firearms by felons with multiple felony convictions for violent crimes and drug offenses; (4) increase penalties for use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire or other felony crimes of violence; and (5) increase penalties for violent crimes in aid of racketeering activities. Extends the limitation period for prosecuting certain noncapital violent crimes. Requires the U.S. Sentencing Commission to review and revise guidelines relating to violent gang-related crimes. Provides for certain studies and reports relating to criminal gangs, including reports distinguishing criminal offenses committed by juveniles.

Preservation Approval Process Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 2007

Preservation Approval Process Improvement Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to: (1) suspend mandatory processing of Previous Participation Certificates under the Automated Partners Performance System (APPS); and (2) permit paper filings of such certificates until the December 2006 draft of specified proposed regulations are revised and submitted for review to certain congressional committees. Instructs the Secretary also to suspend immediately all filing requirements under the Previous Participation Certificate process with respect to limited liability corporate investors who own or expect to own an interest in entities which are allowed or are expected to be allowed specified low-income housing tax credits under the Internal Revenue Code.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 835) to reauthorize the programs of the Department of Housing and Urban Development for housing assistance for Native Hawaiians.

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 2007

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 835) to reauthorize the programs of the Department of Housing and Urban Development for housing assistance for Native Hawaiians.

Revising the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2007, establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2008, and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2009 through 2012.

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 2007

Revises and replaces the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2007. Sets forth the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2008, including the appropriate budgetary levels for FY2009-FY2012. Recommends budgetary levels and amounts for FY2007-FY2012 for: (1) federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits (on-budget); (5) debt subject to limit; and (6) debt held by the public. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority and outlays for specified major functional categories for FY2007-FY2012. Authorizes certain reserve funds for: (1) the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP); (2) alternative minimum tax revision; (3) middle-income tax relief and economic equity; (4) agriculture; (5) higher education; (6) Medicare improvements; (7) creation of long-term energy alternatives; (8) affordable housing; (9) equitable benefits for Filipino veterans of World War II; (10) reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act; (11) receipts from the Bonneville Power Administration; and (12) the Transitional Medical Assistance program extension. Provides for adjustments to discretionary spending limits, budgetary aggregates, and allocations for: (1) continuing disability reviews and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) redeterminations by the Social Security Administration (SSA); (2) Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax compliance; (3) the health care fraud and abuse control program; and (4) unemployment insurance improper payments reviews. Prohibits House legislation that would require advance appropriations, except certain FY2009 or FY2010 programs, projects, activities, or accounts. States that new budget authority, outlays, and receipts resulting from adoption of legislation making appropriations for FY2008-FY2009 for overseas deployments and related activities, or emergency appropriations for nondefense discretionary spending, shall not count for certain purposes of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA). Declares the policy of this resolution on: (1) middle-income tax relief; (2) defense priorities; and (3) college affordability. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives on: (1) servicemembers' and veterans' health care and other priorities; (2) the Innovation Agenda: A Commitment to Competitiveness to Keep America #1; (3) homeland security; (4) the ongoing need to respond to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita; (5) long-term sustainability of entitlements; (6) the need to maintain and build upon efforts to fight hunger; (7) affordable health coverage; (8) extension of the statutory Pay-As-You-Go rule; (9) long-term budgeting; (10) pay parity; (11) waste, fraud, and abuse; (12) child support enforcement; and (13) state veterans cemetaries. Sets forth reconciliation instructions for the House Committee on Education and Labor.

HOUSING ISSUES IN INDIAN COUNTRY

United States · United States Senate · 22 March 2007

U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2007

U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 - Makes emergency supplemental FY2007 appropriations for specified activities related to the global war on terror to the Departments of Agriculture (including food relief to certain foreign countries), of Justice, of Defense (Military, including funds for Iraqi and Afghan security forces), of Defense (military construction), of Energy, of Homeland Security, and of State (including international peacekeeping operations), of the Treasury, and related agencies. Provides funds to enable military commanders in Iraq and Afghanistan to respond to urgent humanitarian relief and reconstruction requirements. Requires the Secretary of Defense to inspect periodically military medical treatment facilities, including military quarters housing medical hold or holdover personnel, to insure that the facilities or quarters meet acceptable standards for their maintenance and operation. Requires additional inspections of identified deficiencies. Provides funds to the Government of Iraq to support the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of militias and illegal armed groups. Requires the President to commence the phased redeployment of U.S. forces from Iraq with the goal of redeploying, by March 31, 2008, all U.S. combat forces from Iraq, except for a limited number essential for: (1) protecting U.S. and coalition personnel and infrastructure; (2) training and equipping Iraqi forces; and (3) conducting targeted counter-terrorism operations. Expresses the sense of Congress that achieving success in Iraq is dependent on the Government of Iraq's meeting specific benchmarks, as reflected in previous commitments made by such Government. Provides funds to assist: (1) Liberia in retiring its debt arrearages; (2) Jordan; and (3) Lebanon. Sets forth benchmarks for certain reconstruction assistance for Iraq. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to revise the authority of the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security regarding temporary admission of certain Iraqi, Hmong, and other nonimmigrants. Makes additional appropriations for disaster relief and recovery related to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita to the Departments of Agriculture, of Justice, of Commerce, of Defense (Civil), of the Interior, of Homeland Security, as well as the Small Business Administration (SBA). Makes additional appropriations for specified purposes to the Departments of the Interior and of Agriculture (for wildfire suppression), of Health and Human Services (for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and for response to an influenza pandemic), of Education, of Defense (military construction and base closure), Veterans Affairs (particularly veterans' health programs), of Transportation, of Housing and Urban Development, as well as the legislative branch. Rescinds certain military construction funds for the Air Force Reserve. Makes appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to eliminate the FY2007 shortfall in funding for the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Prohibits the use of funds in this or any other Act to downsize staff or to close, realign, or phase out essential services at Walter Reed Army Medical Center until specified requirements are met. Requires the Director of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to report to congressional appropriations committees on a projection of appropriations necessary for the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs to continue providing necessary health care to veterans of the conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan. Makes additional appropriations to the Departments of Agriculture (Farm Service Agency) and of Housing and Urban Development (Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight). Rescinds specified unobligated balances of the Department of Agriculture for adjustment assistance for farmers. Requires the Commandant of the Coast Guard to utilize full and open competition, with exceptions, for any contract providing for acquisition or modification of assets with respect to the Integrated Deepwater System Program of the Coast Guard. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize a grant to the (Mississippi) Delta Health Alliance. Emergency Farm Relief Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide specified crop and livestock disaster assistance.

Homeless Veterans Housing at Sepulveda Ambulatory Care Center Promotion Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2007

Homeless Veterans Housing at Sepulveda Ambulatory Care Center Promotion Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into an enhanced-use lease for a homeless housing project at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facility known as the Sepulveda Ambulatory Care Center. Requires the lease to contain specified terms and conditions, including that the project: (1) provides housing exclusively for veterans; (2) is maintained as a sober living facility; and (3) is adequately staffed with health care, counseling, and security personnel.

21st Century Housing Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 2007

21st Century Housing Act - Amends the Housing Act of 1948 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), in carrying out any program through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to: (1) appoint and fix the compensation of Administration personnel; and (2) use premium-generated income for information technology upgrades. Amends the National Housing Act to: (1) extend the maturity term for insured mortgages; (2) revise mortgage insurance eligibility criteria and requirements for premium charges; (3) authorize waiver of certain requirements for new product initiatives; (4) increase the maximum mortgage amount limit for multifamily housing in high-cost areas; (5) increase the FHA single family housing maximum mortgage limit; and (6) increase the capital ratio for the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund. Increases prerequisites for insured mortgages covering condominiums to require that the condomium project have a HUD-insured blanket morgage.