Housing

Planning for Aging Veterans Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 20 December 2021

Planning for Aging Veterans Act of 2021 This bill addresses the long-term care of veterans, including by implementing policies for the administration of state homes. First, the bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to develop a strategy for the long-term care of veterans. The VA must develop a standardized process for entering into sharing agreements between state homes and VA medical centers. A state home is a home established by a state for veterans who are disabled by age, disease, or otherwise and incapable of earning a living because of such disability. The term also includes a home that furnishes nursing home care for veterans. Under the bill, the VA must furnish prescribed drugs and medicines to veterans who are catastrophically disabled and for whom the VA is paying a per diem for nursing home or domiciliary care in a state home. Generally, veterans are catastrophically disabled if they have a permanent severely disabling injury, disorder, or disease that compromises the ability to carry out the activities of daily living. The VA must monitor any contractor it uses to conduct inspections of state homes, including by reviewing inspections, reporting deficiencies, and publishing inspection results and any planned corrective actions on a public VA website. The VA must implement a two-year pilot program to provide geriatric psychiatry assistance to eligible veterans at state homes. Finally, the VA must work with public housing authorities and local organizations to assist aging homeless veterans in accessing existing housing and supportive services.

Sandra L. Thompson, of Maryland, to be Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency for a term of five years, vice Mark Anthony Calabria.

United States · United States Senate · 17 December 2021

Tiny Homes for Homeless Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2021

Tiny Homes for Homeless Veterans Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to implement a six-year pilot program to provide grants for the creation of five villages of tiny homes for homeless veterans. Under the bill, the villages must have associated supportive services to allow veterans to build and live in energy efficient homes, maintain social connections with each other, learn skills, and receive critical counseling. Under the bill, a tiny home is an individual housing unit that is approximately 240 square feet for one person or approximately 340 square feet if the home is for a family.

HUD Health and Safety Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2021

HUD Health and Safety Accountability Act This bill requires the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to make changes to policies and procedures applicable to HUD multifamily housing programs. For example, the bill requires management and occupancy reviews conducted by the Office of Multifamily Housing Programs to include specified graded factors. Additionally, the bill requires changes to (1) local code enforcement response, (2) HUD oversight of individual units that receive Section 8 housing assistance, (3) tenant surveys issued by performance-based contract administrators, and (4) the disclosure of program contact information to tenants.

Latonya Reeves Freedom Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2021

Latonya Reeves Freedom Act of 2021 This bill prohibits government entities and insurance providers from denying community-based services to individuals with disabilities that require long-term service or support that would enable such individuals to live in the community and lead an independent life. Specifically, these entities may not discriminate against such individuals in the provision of community-based services by such actions as imposing prohibited eligibility criteria, cost caps, or waiting lists or failing to provide a specific community-based service. Additionally, community-based services must be offered to individuals with such disabilities prior to institutionalization. Institutionalized individuals must be notified regularly of community-based alternatives. The bill requires the Department of Justice to issue regulations requiring government entities and insurance providers to offer community-based long-term services to individuals with such disabilities who would otherwise qualify for institutional placement. Government entities 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. Regulations shall also (1) require government entities and insurance providers to perform self-evaluation on current services, policies, and practices and concerning compliance with requirements of this bill; and (2) require government entities to submit a transition plan. The bill provides funds for FY2022 for the Department of Health and Human Services to provide technical assistance with respect to transition plans. The bill allows civil actions by individuals subjected to, or about to be subjected to, a violation of its requirements.

Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2021

Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act of 2021 This bill sets forth requirements for the processing of a proposed residential leasehold mortgage, business leasehold mortgage, land mortgage, or right-of-way document by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The bureau must notify lenders upon receipt of such documentation, perform a preliminary review of such documents not later than 10 days after receipt, and approve or disapprove of such documents within 20 or 30 days, depending on the type of application. Additionally, the bill sets forth requirements for the bureau regarding (1) response times for the completion of certified title status reports, (2) notification of delays in processing, and (3) the form of notices and delivery of certain reports. The bill also provides relevant federal agencies and Indian tribes with read-only access to the Trust Asset and Accounting Management System maintained by the bureau. The Government Accountability Office must report on digitizing documents for the purpose of streamlining and expediting the completion of mortgage packages for residential mortgages on Indian land. Finally, the bill establishes within the bureau's Division of Real Estate Services the position of Realty Ombudsman.

Protect Black Women and Girls Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2021

Protect Black Women and Girls Act of 2021 This bill establishes an Interagency Task Force to examine the conditions and experiences of Black women and girls to identify and assess the efficacy of policies and programs of federal, state, and local governments designed to improve outcomes for such individuals and to make recommendations to improve such policies and programs. The task force shall (1) cover issues involving Black women and girls in education, economic development, health care, justice and civil rights, and housing; and (2) submit recommendations at specified intervals to Congress, the President, and each state or local government on policies, practices, programs, and incentives that may be adopted to improve outcomes. The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights shall conduct a comprehensive study and collect data with respect to the effects on Black women and girls of a wide range of specified economic, health, criminal justice, and social services factors.

Homeless Children and Youth Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2021

Homeless Children and Youth Act of 2021 This bill modifies definitions relating to homeless individuals and homeless children or youth as used by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to verify eligibility for HUD homeless assistance programs, including the Continuum of Care program. Specifically, the bill aligns these terms with the definitions of homeless used to verify eligibility for other federal assistance programs. The definitions are also amended to increase access to federal homeless programs by homeless children, youth, and families. Additionally, the community-wide homeless management information system shall be made available to the public on HUD's website.

PROTECT the Second Amendment Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 December 2021

Preserving Rights Of Tenants by Ensuring Compliance To the Second Amendment Act or the PROTECT the Second Amendment Act This bill establishes a right for a resident of covered federally assisted rental housing to lawfully possess a firearm within the residential dwelling unit occupied by the resident and any common area of the federally assisted rental housing in which the resident resides in the course of entering or exiting the rental housing.

Keep Children and Families Safe from Lead Hazards Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 December 2021

Keep Children and Families Safe from Lead Hazards Act This bill requires the Office of Multifamily Housing Programs to conduct a risk assessment of properties that receive low-income housing assistance to identify properties with the greatest risk of exposing children under six years old to lead hazards. The office must develop an action plan for remediation and control of lead hazards in identified properties and submit a report on low-income housing properties with lead hazards, including the number of children under six living at those properties.

To revise the standards for eligibility for community development block grant disaster recovery grants, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 30 November 2021

This bill modifies factors that must be considered in allocating community development disaster recovery block grants. Specifically, the bill prohibits the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) from establishing a minimum threshold dollar amount when determining whether a ZIP code's damages related to housing are sufficient to qualify. Instead, the bill requires HUD to consider any ZIP code for which the median household income is less than 75% of the national median household income as having sufficient damage for that purpose.

Leveraging Integrated Networks in Communities To Address Social Needs Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 23 November 2021

Leveraging Integrated Networks in Communities To Address Social Needs Act of 2021 or the LINC To Address Social Needs Act of 2021 This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to award states competitive grants for technology networks that coordinate the provision of health care and social services (e.g., nutritional assistance, housing, and transportation). States must use the grants to support statewide or regional public-private partnerships in establishing or enhancing such networks. The bill outlines requirements concerning the governance structure of the networks, privacy and security, and related matters. The Government Accountability Office must evaluate the impact of these networks on health outcomes, access to services, and related factors.

Housing PLUS Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2021

Housing Promotes Livelihood and Ultimate Success Act of 2021 or the Housing PLUS Act of 2021 This bill modifies the requirements under which the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) must award grants under the Continuum of Care Program, which provides funding for nonprofit providers and state and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals and families. Specifically, the bill bars HUD from prohibiting, limiting, or restricting Continuum of Care grants to recipients that (1) require program participants to receive supportive services, (2) require program participants to be sober or drug-free, or (3) are faith-based organizations. The bill also requires that 30% of Continuum of Care grant funds be set aside for eligible grant recipients that provide or offer access to wraparound services.

Build More Housing Near Transit Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2021

Build More Housing Near Transit Act of 2021 This bill revises requirements for the fixed guideway capital investment grant program. Specifically, the bill revises how the Department of Transportation evaluates and rates fixed guideway capital projects under the program to include affordable housing incentives.

SIGSSAW Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2021

SIGSSAW Act This bill establishes the Office of the Special Inspector General (SIG) for State Spending and Waste. Specifically, the SIG must conduct, supervise, and coordinate audits and investigations of the treatment, handling, and expenditure of amounts appropriated or otherwise made available for use by states; and establish, maintain, and oversee such systems, procedures, and controls as the SIG considers appropriate to discharge its duties. Whenever information or assistance requested by the SIG is unreasonably refused or not provided, the SIG shall report the circumstances to the Department of Justice and to the appropriate congressional committees without delay. The SIG shall report on a quarterly basis to such committees and to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

A resolution recognizing November 2021 as "National Homeless Children and Youth Awareness Month".

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2021

This resolution recognizes November 2021 as National Homeless Children and Youth Awareness Month.

Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Restoration Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2021

Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Restoration Act of 2021 This bill expands eligibility for Post-9/11 GI bill educational assistance benefits and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loan program. Specifically, the bill explicitly includes the following persons as eligible veterans: Black veterans who served on active duty during World War II who can certify they were denied a specific benefit on the basis of race; and the living surviving spouses, children, grandchildren, or other direct descendants of such veterans described above who can certify the veteran was denied a specific benefit on the basis of race. Such veterans described above must apply for educational or home loan benefits within the five-year period after the passage of this bill to be eligible for benefits. The Government Accountability Office must report on the number of individuals who received educational or housing loan benefits and the total value of such benefits administered by the VA due to the amendments made by the bill. Finally, the VA must appoint a panel of independent experts to develop recommendations regarding additional benefits and assistance for female and minority members of the Armed Forces.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs repays members of the Armed Forces for certain contributions made by such members towards Post-9/11 Educational Assistance, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 November 2021

This bill modifies the process for repaying service members and veterans who paid to keep benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill, but later chose to utilize Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. Specifically, the bill removes the requirement for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to issue the repayments with the last monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. This requirement has limited the repayments to individuals who are receiving stipends. Under the bill, the VA must make such a repayment before the exhaustion of the individual's entitlement to education assistance.

Early Childhood Nutrition Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 November 2021

Early Childhood Nutrition Improvement Act This bill makes various changes to the Child and Adult Care Food Program, which reimburses child care centers, day care homes, and other sites for meals and snacks provided to low-income individuals. Among these changes, the bill authorizes reimbursements for an additional meal or snack provided to children who are in care for at least eight hours, allows certain child care centers to certify their eligibility on an annual (rather than a monthly) basis, and establishes an advisory committee to make recommendations to reduce unnecessary recordkeeping requirements for program participants.

FHA Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 November 2021

FHA Fairness Act This bill increases the mortgage limit for federal mortgage insurance eligibility for homes in certain cities and counties. Specifically, this increase applies to metropolitan cities and urban counties with higher housing costs that have experienced a decrease in home values over a specified time period.

SIGMMA Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 November 2021

SIGMMA Act This bill establishes the Office of the Special Inspector General (SIG) for Major Metropolitan Areas. Specifically, the SIG must conduct, supervise, and coordinate audits and investigations of the treatment, handling, and expenditure of amounts appropriated or otherwise made available for use by major cities; and establish, maintain, and oversee such systems, procedures, and controls as the SIG considers appropriate to discharge its duties. Whenever information or assistance requested by the SIG is unreasonably refused or not provided, the SIG shall report the circumstances to the Department of Justice and to the appropriate congressional committees without delay. The SIG shall report on a quarterly basis to such committees and to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Jobs for a Carbon Free Transportation System Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 November 2021

Jobs for a Carbon Free Transportation System Act This bill provides financial incentives to (1) develop low carbon corridors that connect different methods of transportation, including public transportation systems, rail transportation, and roadways; (2) improve public transportation, mobility, and inclusive economic development; (3) develop commercial and residential areas located near public transportation stations that promote affordable housing and affordable commercial space; and (4) develop plans to transition workers from employment in fossil fuel industries to employment in sustainable industries.

Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Restoration Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 5 November 2021

Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Restoration Act of 2021 This bill expands eligibility for Post-9/11 GI bill educational assistance benefits and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loan program. Specifically, the bill explicitly includes the following persons as eligible veterans: Black veterans who served on active duty during World War II who can certify they were denied a specific benefit on the basis of race; and the living surviving spouses, children, grandchildren, or other direct descendants of such veterans described above who can certify the veteran was denied a specific benefit on the basis of race. Such veterans described above must apply for educational or home loan benefits within the five-year period after the passage of this bill to be eligible for benefits. The Government Accountability Office must report on the number of individuals who received educational or housing loan benefits and the total value of such benefits administered by the VA due to the amendments made by the bill. Finally, the VA must appoint a panel of independent experts to develop recommendations regarding additional benefits and assistance for female and minority members of the Armed Forces.

SHELTER Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 4 November 2021

Safeguarding Homes by Ensuring Licensing and Transparency with Eligibility Requirements Act of 2021 or the SHELTER Act of 2021 This bill imposes certain requirements on applicants for certain Office of Refugee Resettlement grants to open or fund shelter facilities for unaccompanied alien children. Specifically an applicant for such a grant must (1) disclose in the application any adverse action (generally an adverse criminal or regulatory action relating to a government contract or the care of children) taken against the applicant in the five-year period before the application, and (2) be licensed under state law to operate the facility in question. The Department of Health and Human Services must collaborate with state agencies to review state databases for information about adverse actions taken against such applicants.

Manufactured Housing Community Improvement Grant Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 November 2021

Manufactured Housing Community Improvement Grant Program Act This bill requires the Department of Housing and Urban Development to award grants to manufactured home communities for projects that protect the health and safety of community residents and the long-term sustainability of the community. To be eligible for grants under the bill, a manufactured home community must be affordable to low-income and moderate-income persons.

Protect Communities from a Porous Border Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 3 November 2021

Protect Communities from a Porous Border Act of 2021 This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to notify a state before placing an alien in that state and gives the state final authority to prohibit such a placement. At least 10 business days before placing (e.g., detaining or housing) such an individual in a state, DHS must provide certain information to that state, including (1) the individual's biographic and biometric information, including DNA; and (2) a certification that the biometric and biographic information has been checked in various law enforcement and counterterrorism databases. No federal court shall have jurisdiction to review (1) the requirements and procedures established under this bill, or (2) a decision by a state to prohibit the placement of such an individual in the state. The bill also prohibits any federal official from waiving any of the bill's requirements.

WALL Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 3 November 2021

WALL Act of 2021 This bill appropriates $25 billion for the construction of a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border and addresses other issues related to immigration. As offsets to this spending, the bill restricts the child tax credit, earned income credits, and lifetime learning credits to those with Social Security numbers and not prohibited from employment in the United States. Also, individuals who file taxes using an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number must pay a fee ($300 for each individual on the tax return who was issued an ITIN). The bill restricts eligibility for certain federally-funded benefits, including unemployment compensation, supplemental nutrition assistance, and housing benefits, to those eligible to work in the United States. Agencies administering such benefits must use the E-Verify program to confirm the eligibility of applicants for such benefits. This bill also sets fines for aliens who improperly enter the United States or overstay their visas.

Clean Energy for All Homes Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 2021

Clean Energy for All Homes Act This bill make the tax credit for residential energy efficient property refundable after 2022. It also requires that residential energy efficient property placed in service after 2022 must be installed by a qualified installer. A qualified installer must provide an owner of a residence with certain information, including a written receipt of the purchase and installation of the property and an installation identification number.

Pets Belong With Families Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 2021

Pets Belong With Families Act This bill prohibits public housing agencies from imposing breed restrictions on pets owned by residents of public housing units. The bill continues to allow public housing agencies to prohibit ownership of dangerous animals in public housing, but prohibits classification as dangerous by breed and requires that any such classification be based on specific behaviors or actions of the animal.

Expediting Disaster Recovery Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2021

Expediting Disaster Recovery Act This bill authorizes the President, after the declaration of a major disaster, to direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide assistance necessary for meeting unmet needs as a result of such disaster. The President may provide financial assistance or direct assistance to individuals or households to construct permanent or semi-permanent housing in insular areas outside the continental United States and in other locations if the President considers it a cost effective alternative to other housing solutions.

Security After Sandy Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2021

Security After Sandy Act This bill cancels and waives certain debts owed to the United States. The bill cancels repayment for all uncollected amounts owed with respect to community disaster loans made by the federal government between January 1, 2006, and January 1, 2021, with respect to any major disaster declared under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Small Business Administration shall waive a debt owed to the United States related to such assistance provided to an individual or household if (1) such debt owed is a result of an unauthorized use of funds for such assistance, and (2) the use of funds related to the same recovery for which the assistance was provided. Such debt may not be waived if it involves fraud by the debtor.

FIRE Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2021

FEMA Improvement, Reform, and Efficiency Act of 2021 or the FIRE Act This bill addresses the federal government's approach to wildfires. Specifically, the bill authorizes a public mitigation assistance applicant to relocate an eligible structure upon demonstrating that the structure is at risk from future damage and the relocation reduces the risk to the structure, is cost effective, and does not increase risk to adjacent structures. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the National Weather Service, must conduct a study on Red Flag Warnings and similar weather and notification methods to implement plans and actions prior to a wildfire that can limit the impact, duration, or severity of the fire. The President must ensure that those providing counseling or case management services to victims of a major disaster are trained to address cultural competency. FEMA must (1) conduct a study and develop a plan to address providing housing assistance to survivors of major disasters or emergencies when presented with challenges such as the lack of proof of ownership, and (2) seek to contract with the National Academy of Sciences to study solutions to address the availability and affordability of insurance for wildfire perils and other related matters. The bill allows Indian tribal governments to apply for grants for equipping, upgrading, and constructing state and local emergency operations centers.

HEALS Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2021

Help End Abusive Living Situations Act or the HEALS Act This bill modifies factors the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) must consider when awarding grants under the Continuum of Care Program, which provides funding for nonprofit providers and state and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals and families. Specifically, when awarding Continuum of Care grants, HUD must (1) consider the needs of survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking; (2) consider transitional housing projects on an even basis with any other project; and (3) score applicants for grants without prioritizing or deprioritizing rapid-rehousing, permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, or short-term emergency shelter projects based solely on those project categories.

FIRE Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 October 2021

FEMA Improvement, Reform, and Efficiency Act of 2021 or the FIRE Act This bill addresses the federal government's approach to wildfires. Specifically, the bill authorizes an eligible applicant seeking public mitigation assistance to relocate an eligible structure upon demonstrating that the structure is at risk from future damage and the relocation reduces the risk to the structure and does not increase risk to adjacent structures. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the National Weather Service, must conduct a study on Red Flag Warnings and similar weather alert and notification methods to implement plans and actions prior to a wildfire event that can limit the impact, duration, or severity of the fire. The Government Accountability Office must report to Congress regarding wildfires, including the effectiveness of FEMA programs in addressing wildfires and other hazards. The President must ensure that those providing case management services to victims of a major disaster have cultural competency training. FEMA must (1) conduct a study and develop a plan to address providing housing assistance to survivors of major disasters or emergencies when presented with challenges such as the lack of proof of ownership or ownership documentation, and (2) seek to contract with the National Academy of Sciences to study potential solutions to address the availability and affordability of insurance for wildfire perils and other related matters. The bill allows Indian tribal governments to apply for grants for equipping, upgrading, and constructing state and local emergency operations centers.

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2021

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022 This bill provides FY2022 appropriations to the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education; and related agencies. The bill provides appropriations to the Department of Labor for the Employment and Training Administration, the Employee Benefits Security Administration, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, the Wage and Hour Division, the Office of Labor-Management Standards, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Office of Disability Employment Policy, and Departmental Management. The bill provides appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services for the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Administration for Children and Families, the Administration for Community Living, and the Office of the Secretary. The bill provides appropriations to the Department of Education for Education for the Disadvantaged; Impact Aid; School Improvement Programs; Indian Education; Innovation and Improvement; Safe Schools and Citizenship Education; English Language Acquisition; Special Education; Rehabilitation Services; Special Institutions for Persons with Disabilities; Career, Technical, and Adult Education; Student Financial Assistance; Student Aid Administration; Higher Education; Howard University; the College Housing and Academic Facilities Loan Program; the Historically Black College and University Capital Financing Program Account; the Institute of Education Sciences; and Departmental Management. The bill also provides appropriations to several related agencies, including the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled, the Corporation for National and Community Service, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, the National Council on Disability, the National Labor Relations Board, the National Mediation Board, the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission, the Railroad Retirement Board, and the Social Security Administration. The bill also sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations acts.

A STRONG FOUNDATION: HOW HOUSING IS THE KEY TO BUILDING BACK A BETTER AMERICA

United States · United States House of Representatives · 21 October 2021

HOW PRIVATE EQUITY LANDLORDS ARE CHANGING THE HOUSING MARKET

United States · United States Senate · 21 October 2021

FEMA Relief Extension Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2021

FEMA Relief Extension Act This bill extends the period for federal assistance to individuals and households under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and any corresponding regulation from 18 to 24 months following the declaration of a major disaster. Further, the bill authorizes the President to charge fair market rent for each temporary housing unit provided after the end of the 24-month period.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2021

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022 This bill provides FY2022 appropriations to the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and several related agencies. The bill provides appropriations to DOT for the Office of the Secretary, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, the Federal Transit Administration, the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, the Maritime Administration, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the Office of Inspector General. The bill provides appropriations to HUD for Management and Administration, Public and Indian Housing, Community Planning and Development, Housing Programs, the Federal Housing Administration, the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), Policy Development and Research, Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, the Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes, the Information Technology Fund, and the Office of Inspector General. The bill also provides appropriations to several related agencies, including the Access Board, the Federal Maritime Commission, the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) Office of Inspector General, the National Transportation Safety Board, the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation, the Surface Transportation Board, and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. The bill includes several provisions that establish requirements and authorities for HUD's programs and activities related to disaster relief and recovery. Additionally, the bill sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations acts.

A bill making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 2021

This bill provides FY2022 appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD). It also provides additional FY2022 appropriations for the National Nuclear Security Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Within the DOD budget, the bill provides appropriations for Military Personnel; Operation and Maintenance; Procurement; Research, Development, Test and Evaluation; and Revolving and Management Funds. The bill provides appropriations for Other Department of Defense Programs, including the Defense Health Program, Chemical Agents and Munitions Destruction, Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities, and the Office of the Inspector General. The bill provides appropriations for Related Agencies, including (1) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund, and (2) the Intelligence Community Management Account. The bill also provides additional FY2022 appropriations for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board, Military Construction, Family Housing Construction for the Army, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Within the Department of Energy, the bill provides additional FY2022 appropriations for (1) the National Nuclear Security Administration, and (2) Environmental and Other Defense Activities. The bill also sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations acts.

Brian Michael Tomney, of Virginia, to be Inspector General of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, vice Laura S. Wertheimer, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 19 October 2021

Tim’s Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2021

Tim Hart Wildland Firefighter Classification and Pay Parity Act or Tim's Act This bill addresses the pay and benefits of federal wildland firefighters and related issues. Federal wildland firefighter is defined as any temporary, seasonal, or permanent position at the Department of Agriculture (USDA) or the Department of the Interior that maintains certain group, emergency incident management, or fire qualifications and primarily engages in or supports wildland fire management activities. Specifically, (1) the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must establish one or more classification series for federal wildland firefighter positions, and (2) USDA and the Department of the Interior shall determine each position within USDA and Interior that qualifies as a federal wildland firefighter position. The bill, among other requirements (1) establishes a pay scale for such positions, with annual adjustments; and (2) provides for hazardous duty pay. The OPM must establish guidelines for work schedules. The bill addresses issues regarding wages, unpaid leave to care for a family member, recruitment and retention bonuses, and housing allowances. USDA and Interior shall (1) establish, maintain, coordinate, and operate a voluntary tuition assistance program; (2) establish and maintain a publicly accessible, searchable Federal Wildland Firefighter Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease Database; and (3) establish and carry out a program for mental health awareness and support. Additionally, the bill provides for continuation of firefighters pension coverage in case of disability and pay parity for federal structural firefighters.

A bill to prohibit proof of COVID-19 vaccination status as a requirement for receiving assistance under a program funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2021

This bill prohibits a federal agency, a state government, or a local government from conditioning assistance under a program of the Department of Housing and Urban Development on an individual providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

Improving Care for Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2021

Improving Care for Veterans Act This bill requires state homes that receive funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to have a governing body that is legally responsible for establishing and implementing policies regarding the management and operation of the home. A  state home  is a home established by a state for veterans who are disabled by age, disease, or otherwise and are incapable of earning a living because of such disability. The term also includes a home that furnishes nursing home care for veterans. Additionally, the bill requires the VA to provide payments for states to assist state homes in the hiring and retention of infection preventionists.

Return Home to Housing Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2021

Return Home to Housing Act This bill increases the maximum rate of per diem payments provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to entities (i.e., grant recipients or authorized entities) that furnish services and transitional housing to homeless veterans.

Protections for Student Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2021

Protections for Student Veterans Act This bill authorizes service members who are utilizing Department of Veterans Affairs educational assistance benefits to withdraw or take a leave of absence after they receive orders for active service, inactive-duty training, or state active duty. Institutions of higher education are prohibited from taking adverse actions against such service members for withdrawing or taking a leave of absence, including assigning a failing grade, reducing the member's grade point average, characterizing any absence as unexcused, or assessing financial penalties. The bill requires institutions of higher education to refund all tuition and fees (including for housing) for the academic term for which the service member withdraws. In situations where the service member takes a leave of absence, the institution of higher education must assign a grade of incomplete for the applicable term and permit the member to complete the academic term after the period of service.

Flood Risk Transparency for Homebuyers Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 October 2021

Flood Risk Transparency for Homebuyers Act This bill requires the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to disclose certain flood hazards to prospective buyers when listing a one-to-four-unit residential property for sale. The requirement applies to every such HUD-owned property located in a special flood hazard area and requires HUD to disclose (1) the estimated monthly cost to insure the property under the National Flood Insurance Program in the zip code where the property is located and (2) whether the property is a severe repetitive loss property. A one-to-four-unit residential property is considered a severe repetitive loss property under existing law if the property is covered by flood insurance under the National Flood Insurance Program and has incurred flood-related damage resulting in either (1) four or more separate claim payments each exceeding $5,000, or (2) two or more separate claim payments that cumulatively exceed the value of the property. Severe repetitive loss properties are subject to higher flood insurance rates under the National Flood Insurance Program, but may be eligible for grants to mitigate the flood risk under certain circumstances.

Choose Home Care Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2021

Choose Home Care Act of 2021 This bill provides for coverage of home-based extended care services under Medicare. Specifically, the bill provides for coverage of services that are furnished to Medicare beneficiaries in their homes by home health agencies, including nursing care, meals and nutritional support, home medical supplies, nonemergency medical transportation, and care coordination. Coverage includes 30 days of post-hospital care and other periods of extended illness, as determined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Home health agencies that provide such services may receive additional payments in accordance with a specified methodology. The CMS may make payments for covered services furnished before 2022 during any period in which there is a public health emergency.

Elizabeth de Leon Bhargava, of New York, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice John Bobbitt.

United States · United States Senate · 7 October 2021

HELPER Act of 2021

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2021

Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder Act of 2021 or the HELPER Act of 2021 This bill establishes a program administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide mortgage assistance to law enforcement officers, elementary and secondary school teachers, firefighters, or other first responders. Specifically, these individuals may be eligible for a one-time mortgage on a primary family residence with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance premium.