Housing

Veterans' Disability Compensation, Housing, and Memorial Benefits Amendments of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981

Veterans' Disability Compensation and Survivors' Benefits Act of 1981 - Title I: Veterans' Disability Compensation Benefits - Increases the rates of veterans' compensation for: (1) wartime disability compensation; or (2) additional compensation for dependents; and (3) clothing allowances paid to certain disabled veterans. Title II: Survivors' Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Benefits - Increases the rates of veterans' dependency and indemnity compensation for: (1) a surviving spouse; (2) surviving children; and (3) supplemental children's benefits. Title III: Effective Date - States that the provisions of this Act shall take effect on October 1, 1981.

A bill to authorize the use of community development funds with respect to the construction of certain public hospitals located in nonmetropolitan areas.

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981

Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to include as an activity which may be conducted as part of a Community Development Program the construction of a publicly owned and operated medical facility in a nonmetropolitan area if: (1) other Federal assistance is available; and (2) the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development has received a certification that there is a need for such facility and that there are minimum standards for the licensure and operation of medical facilities in the area of construction.

A joint resolution designation of the second week in May as "Senior Center Week".

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981

Requests the President to designate the week beginning May 16, 1981, as "Senior Center Week."

A bill to amend Sections 593, 7701, and 856 of the Internal Revenue Code with respect to tax treatment of loans secured by stock in cooperative housing corporations.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981

Title I: Tax Treatment of Loans Secured by Shares of Stock in Cooperative Housing Corporations - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to qualify loans secured by stock in a cooperative housing corporation for the tax treatment accorded losses on certain real property loans. Revises the definition of "domestic building and loan association" to include associations at least 60 percent of the total assets of which consists of such loans. Title II: Tax Treatment of Investment by Real Estate Investment Trusts in Loans Secured by Stock in Cooperative Housing Corporations - Includes stock in a cooperative housing corporation in the amount of real estate assets and in the amount of interests in real property used for determining the status of a real estate investment trust.

A concurrent resolution to declare April as "Fair Housing Month".

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981

Recognizes the month of April as "Fair Housing Month."

National Displacement Policy Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981

National Displacement Policy Act - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to require an applicant for a community development block grant to mitigate and end displacement of area residents. Requires the housing assistance plan to demonstrate an effective strategy for ending such displacement. Amends the United States Housing Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to take into consideration whether a family is, or is about to be, without housing as a result of involuntary displacement, for purposes of providing assistance under such Act. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1970 to require the President to transmit to Congress, as part of the biannual Report on Urban Growth required by such Act, a special displacement component analyzing the extent of urban residential displacement and formulating a strategy to combat the adverse effects of such displacement. Amends the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 to require the appropriate Federal banking supervisory agency to assess a financial institution's record of adopting policies which minimize the displacement of persons from their homes. Amends the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisitions Act of 1970 to direct the payment of moving and related expenses for displaced persons whenever activities undertaken as a result of a Federal program or project cause such displacement. Declares that payments made to displaced persons shall reflect increases in the cost-of-living. Directs the President to establish a Federal Relocation Assistance Compliance Office for the purpose of carrying out a more uniform and effective administration of relocation assistance. Requires such Office to coordinate the relocation activities of the Federal agencies. States that rental or lease assistance paid to a displaced person shall not exceed 25 percent of such person's income. States that no person shall be required to move from his or her rental dwelling on account of any Federal project or any federally assisted project if: (1) the rental vacancy rate in the area for dwellings similar in size and cost is less than one percent; or (2) there is a waiting list of persons eligible to receive Federal assistance who desire to rent such unit. Directs the President, through the Federal Relocation Assistance Compliance Office, to report annually to the Congress on the extent of involuntary displacement of families and on measures to mitigate such displacement.

A bill to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981

Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to include as an activity which may be conducted as part of a Community Development Program the construction of a publicly owned and operated medical facility in a nonmetropolitan area if: (1) other Federal assistance is available; and (2) the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development has received a certification that there is a need for such facility and that there are minimum standards for the licensure and operation of medical facilities in the area of construction.

A bill to provide supplemental authority to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for the purpose of providing annual contributions for the operation of low-income housing projects.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981

Increases the amount of funds authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development after fiscal year 1980 for annual contributions to public housing agencies for the operation of low-income housing projects.

Individual Housing Act of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981

Individual Housing Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for cash contributions to a savings account created or organized for the benefit of the taxpayer (or the taxpayer and spouse if married) for the exclusive purpose of purchasing a residence. Limits the maximum annual deduction to $3,000, with a maximum lifetime deduction of $15,000. Provides for separate limitations in the case of married individuals. Excludes distributions from such account from gross income as long as they are used exclusively for the purchase or construction of a residence for the taxpayer. Imposes a ten percent surtax on distributions from an individual housing account which are not used for the purchase or construction of a residence for the taxpayer. Provides a tax deduction for an individual who purchases a new home for personal purposes in an amount equal to the sales taxes paid on items used in the construction of such home. Provides a refundable tax credit of an amount equal to lost interest on required real property tax prepayments. Stipulates that such lost interest shall be an amount equal to interest computed at the rate of 5.5 percent. Limits such tax credit to $200.

Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1981

Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1981 - Title I: Community and Neighborhood Development and Conservation - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to: (1) authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for grants to metropolitan areas for Community Development Programs; and (2) to limit the amount of commitments to guarantee notes and other obligations which the Secretary may enter into with respect to community development loan guarantees in fiscal year 1982. Amends the Housing Act of 1964 to increase the amount of funds authorized for rehabilitation loans and to limit the amount of commitments to make such loans for fiscal year 1982. Amends the Housing Act of 1954 to reduce the funds authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 1982 for grants for activities relating to the development of comprehensive plans for community development, employment, and conservation, and to restrict the use of such funds to carrying out the clearinghouse functions required by OMB Circular A-95. Amends the Neighborhood Self-Help Development Act of 1978 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for grants for community development to neighborhood organizations. Amends the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation Act to authorize appropriations for the Corporation for fiscal year 1982. Title II: Assisted Housing - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937: (1) to increase, on October 1, 1981, the maximum amount of annual contractual contributions which the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development may make to low-income housing; (2) to limit the amount which may be obligated over the duration of such contracts with respect to additional authority provided after October 1, 1981; (3) to allocate such additional authority; and (4) to authorize appropriations to fiscal year 1982 for annual contributions for the operation of low-income housing projects. Amends the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978 to authorize fiscal year 1982 appropriations for operating assistance for troubled multifamily housing projects, with restrictions on the use of such funds for operating deficits resulting from failures to amend project contracts. Amends the National Housing Act to prohibit the approval of the appropriation of funds for such assistance after September 30, 1982. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary to provide additional assistance payments of a specified amount per year to lower income families for acquiring home ownership or membership in a cooperative association. Title III: Program Amendments and Extensions - Amends the National Housing Act to extend the Secretary's authority to insure loans for mortgages and home improvement. Extends the Secretary's authority to establish the maximum interest rates for certain mortgage insurance programs. Limits the maximum principal amount of loans and mortgages that the Secretary may insure under such Act in fiscal year 1982. Amends the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act of 1974 to extend the authority of the Secretary to direct the Government National Mortgage Association to purchase mortgages and securities. Amends the Housing Act of 1959 to limit the amount of loans the Secretary may make for the provision of housing for elderly or handicapped families in fiscal year 1982. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1970 to authorize appropriations for research for the Department of Housing and Urban Development in fiscal year 1982. Amends the National Housing Act to increase the amount of funds authorized to be appropriated to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to: (1) increase, on October 1, 1981, the limitation on the total amount of commitments authorized for the Government National Mortgage Association; and (2) to limit the aggregate principal amount of mortgages that the Association may purchase and the amount of securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association that the Association may guarantee during fiscal year 1982. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1975 to direct the President to appoint two of the members of the Board of Directors of the National Institute of Building Sciences selected each year, and to extend the authorization for the Institute through fiscal year 1987. Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize appropriations for the weatherization program for fiscal year 1982. Title IV: Flood, Crime, and Riot Insurance - Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to extend the national flood insurance program until September 30, 1983, and to authorize appropriations for various insurance studies during fiscal year 1982. Amends the National Housing Act to extend: (1) the Secretary's powers to enter into contracts with respect to the Federal riot reinsurance program and the Federal crime insurance program until September 30, 1983; and (2) the deadline for submitting a plan for the liquidation of such programs to Congress until September 30, 1986. Title V: Rural Housing - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1982 to the Secretary of Agriculture: (1) to insure and guarantee loans for rural housing, with certain restrictions; (2) to make loans and grants for improvements of rural housing; (3) to provide financial assistance for the provision of low- rent housing for domestic farm labor; (4) to make grants or contract for the development of programs to assist low-income persons in benefiting from housing programs in rural areas; and (5) to insure loans to provide rental housing for persons of moderate income in rural areas. Terminates use of the Rural Housing Insurance Fund for certain rural housing loans as of October 1, 1981. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into contracts to provide: (1) interest credit payments with respect to such loans made during fiscal year 1982; (2) additional assistance payments to low income persons who are unable to afford dwellings with such interest credit payments; and (3) rental assistance payments. Authorizes appropriations for such payments in fiscal year 1982 with annual and aggregate limitations. Authorizes fiscal year 1982 appropriations for: (1) programs of mutual and self-help housing in rural areas; and (2) the Self-Help Housing Land Development Fund.

Smoke Detector Demonstration Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1981

Smoke Detector Demonstration Act - Directs the Administrator of the United States Fire Administration to establish and conduct, after consultation with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, smoke detector placement demonstration projects. Directs the Administrator to establish criteria applicable to the selection, acquisition, installation, and maintenance of smoke detectors used and the selection of participating households and communities. Directs the Administrator to establish minimum performance requirements for detectors used in the projects. Directs the Administrator to ensure that sufficient opportunity for participation is given to older persons, institutions serving children, and low-income families. Directs the Administrator to submit information on project results to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Directs the Commission to evaluate such information and disseminate to consumers information pertinent to the purchase and effective use of smoke detectors. Authorizes the Commission to require the Administrator to design projects so as to produce information which may be used in promulgating consumer product safety standards. Directs the Administrator to report to Congress on implementation of this Act with recommendations. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 to carry out this Act.

Einkommensteuerrechtliche Behandlung des Bauherrenmodells und Koppelung mit dem sozialen Wohnungsbau sowie Finanzierung eines Modellversuchs (G-SIG: 09041550)

Germany · German Bundestag · 3 April 1981

Derzeitige Kostenmieten im sozialen Wohnungsbau (G-SIG: 09041523)

Germany · German Bundestag · 3 April 1981

Elderly Homeowners Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981

Elderly Homeowner's Relief Act - Amends the Home Owner's Loan Act of 1933 to permit Federal savings and loan associations to offer reverse annuity mortgages on the security of first liens upon residential real property in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Federal Home Loan Bank Board. Requires the regulations issued by the Board to include provisions which: (1) entitle applicants to withdraw without penalty from the mortgage agreement within 17 days of its consummation; (2) assure notice to consumers of all contingencies under the terms of the mortgage in the event of default; (3) provide all applicants an opportunity for refinancing at the end of the mortgage term; (4) allow prepayment at any one time without penalty; (5) require all associations to purchase annuities from an insurance company licensed by the State of their incorporation; (6) prohibit any variable interest rate on the mortgage loan; and (7) require applicants to receive a written notice of the terms of the mortgage loan containing specified provisions.

Verbindung des sogenannten Bauherrenmodells mit der Förderung im sozialen Wohnungsbau (G-SIG: 09041391)

Germany · German Bundestag · 27 March 1981

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to provide for the establishment of and the deduction of contributions to, education savings accounts and housing savings accounts.

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1981

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for cash and other personal property contributions to a savings account created or organized exclusively for the purpose of paying the educational expenses of the taxpayer or the taxpayer's child. Limits the amount of such deduction to $1,000 per year, adjusted for inflation. Limits eligibility for such deduction to the taxpayer or the taxpayer's dependent child unless such child has attained age 21 or has attended an institution of higher education as a full-time student for more than four weeks in the year of his twenty-first birthday. Excludes distributions from such an account from the gross income of the payee so long as such distributions are used to defray the beneficiary's tuition, fees, books and supplies, and reasonable living expenses. Specifies sanctions for the use of account funds for other than such educational purposes. Treats qualified distributions as income to the beneficiary for the taxable year in which the beneficiary attains age 25, and for each of the following nine years, in successive apportionments equal to ten percent of the total amount of such distributions. Allows a deduction for cash and other personal property contributions to a savings account created or organized for the benefit of the taxpayer (or the taxpayer and spouse if married) for the exclusive purpose of purchasing such individual's first residence. Limits the maximum annual deduction to $1,500 ($3,000 in the case of married individuals filing jointly), with a maximum lifetime deduction of $15,000 ($30,000 in the case of married individuals filing jointly). Provides for annual inflation adjustment of such amounts. Excludes distributions from such account from gross income so long as they are used exclusively for the purchase of a first residence. Provides for recapture of such distribution upon a subsequent sale of such first residence if another house is not purchased with the proceeds. Requires reduction of the $100,000 exclusion from gross income of proceeds from the sale of a principal residence by a taxpayer 55 years of age or older if such residence had been purchased with distributions from a tax-exempt housing savings account. Limits the amount of such reduction to the amount of any such distribution excluded from gross income.

A bill to restrict the Federal National Mortgage Association with respect to its authority to preclude the assumption of mortgages secured by single-family residences.

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1981

Prohibits the Federal National Mortgage Association, for four years after enactment of this Act, from precluding the assumption of a mortgage on a single-family residence, except on the basis: (1) that the person assuming the mortgage is not creditworthy; or (2) of criteria for the condition of the residence which were used in the original mortgage financing determination. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to report to Congress on the number of families who were able to purchase a residence because of this Act, the number of families who could purchase a residence in the future if this prohibition were continued, and the reasons, if any, for discontinuing the prohibition.

A bill to prohibit the use of Federal housing assistance with respect to certain aliens.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1981

Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980 to prohibit the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from providing housing assistance for the benefit of any alien unless such alien is a U.S. resident and either admitted for permanent residence or lawfully present in the United States under specified conditions (including admission for asylum or as a refugee, or because his or her deportation has been withheld).

Verwendung des bundeseigenen Geländes an der Heidemannstraße in München für den sozialen Wohnungsbau (G-SIG: 09041434)

Germany · German Bundestag · 20 March 1981

John J. Knapp, of New York, to be General Counsel of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, vice Jane McGraw.

United States · United States Senate · 19 March 1981

A bill for the relief of Orange County Fair Housing Council, Incorporated.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1981

Provides that a named corporation shall be relieved of liability to the United States for certain taxes imposed over a specified period of time.

Philip D. Winn, of Colorado, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Lawrence B. Simons, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 17 March 1981

Emanuel S. Savas, of New Jersey, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Donna Edna Shalala, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 17 March 1981

A bill to prevent inequities in the administration of income determination pertaining to low-rent housing.

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1981

Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, when determining eligibility for or the rental amount of low-income housing, to exclude $300 from the income of a family for the spouse of the head of the household if the spouse is 62 years of age or older, not a wage earner because of the presence in the household of children under seven years of age, or over 18 years of age and disabled.

A bill to prohibit Federal assistance to rental housing projects for the elderly and handicapped if such projects do not allow tenants to have pets.

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1981

Prohibits Federally assisted rental housing projects for the elderly and handicapped from forbidding tenants to have pets or discriminating against persons having pets.

A resolution disapproving the proposed deferral of budget authority to carry out the congregate services program under title IV of the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1981

Disapproves the proposed deferral of budget authority (deferral no. 81-70) to carry out the congregate services program under the Housing Community Development Amendments of 1978, as transmitted by the President to the Congress on February 17, 1981, pursuant to the Impoundment Control Act of 1974.

Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1981

Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1981 - Enacts into law the short titles "Civil Rights Act of 1968" and "Fair Housing Act". Amends the Fair Housing Act to expand the definition of "discriminatory housing practice" to include any violation under such Act (thus codifying case law which holds that the obligation of Federal agencies to administer programs affirmatively to further the purposes of fair housing and the prohibition against interference with rights under the Act are separately actionable). Adds new definitions of "handicap" and "aggrieved person". Excludes from the meaning of "handicap" any impairment consisting of alcohol or drug abuse or which would be a direct threat to the property or safety of others. Retains the two current exemptions from the prohibition against the discriminatory sale or rental of housing which are given to: (1) an owner of three or less single-family houses; and (2) the owner of a dwelling consisting of four or fewer family units who also resides in such dwelling (the "Mrs. Murphy" exemption). Makes it unlawful to: (1) refuse to sell or rent to a handicapped person unless such handicap would prevent a prospective occupant from conforming to specified non-discrimination rules and practices; and (2) discriminate against a handicapped person in the conditions of sale or rental, or in the provision of related services or facilities. Includes within such discrimination a refusal to: (1) permit reasonable modifications to permit access to the premises (but only if a renter agrees to restore the premises to their original condition); and (2) make reasonable accommodations in policies, services, or facilities to afford handicapped persons equal enjoyment of the premises. States that such discrimination shall not include a refusal to: (1) make alterations at the expense of sellers, landlords, owners, or persons acting on their behalf; (2) make modifications which would unreasonably inconvenience others; and (3) allow architectural modifications which materially decrease the value of a building or alter its intended use. Makes it unlawful for an insurer to discriminate in the provision or terms of insurance against hazards to a dwelling because of the race, color, religion, sex, handicap, or national origin of persons owning or residing in or near the dwelling. Adds handicapped persons as a protected class under other existing prohibitions on discriminatory activities. Modifies the housing financing discrimination provision to prescribe all conduct which denies or "otherwise makes unavailable" financial assistance because of race, color, religion, handicap, or national origin. Includes with such prohibition persons in the business of selling, brokering, or appraising real property. Establishes the Fair Housing Review Commission, composed of three members appointed by the President for staggered six-year terms. Stipulates that no more than two members may be of the same political party. Directs the Commission to: (1) appoint administrative law judges and other employees as necessary to carry out its functions; (2) promulgate a code of ethics to assure the independence of such judges; (3) promulgate rules of discovery for its proceedings consistent insofar as practicable with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure; and (4) consider appeals from the proposed orders of the administrative law judges upon application of a party. Includes Federal agencies having regulatory authority over financial institutions within the executive departments and agencies which are currently required to administer their housing programs in an affirmative manner. Authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide financial as well as technical assistance to public and private organizations seeking to remedy housing discrimination. Establishes a new administrative enforcement procedure within the Department of Housing and Urban Development in addition to the current enforcement provisions of title VIII (allowing civil actions by private parties and the Attorney General). Directs the Secretary to make an investigation of all alleged discriminatory housing practice on his or her own initiative or upon the filing of a charge by an aggrieved person within one year of the alleged discrimination. Requires the Secretary to attempt to correct the discriminatory practice by informal methods of conference, conciliation, and persuasion. Requires the Secretary, if the aggrieved person and respondent consent to binding arbitration, to refer the charge to an arbitrator made available by the Community Relations Service of the Department of Justice. Continues the current authority of the Secretary to utilize discovery measures. Retains the current penalty for failing to produce information (up to a $1,000 fine and/or one year's imprisonment). Makes certain changes in the current requirements for referring charges to State or local agencies for investigation and enforcement. Specifies, with respect to the rights and remedies provided by such agencies, the elements of "substantial equivalency" which permit certification and referrals of discrimination charges. Eliminates the Secretary's authority to recall referrals in the interest of justice or to protect the rights of the parties. Prohibits further action by the Secretary unless the agency fails to act in a timely fashion (current law gives the agency 30 days to commence proceedings). Requires the Secretary and other Federal agencies to cooperate to avoid duplication of their housing discrimination authority. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements to permit other agencies to carry out such responsibilities within their jurisdictions. Directs the Secretary to enter into agreements with specified Federal agencies for such purpose with respect to depository institutions. Permits an action for temporary or preliminary relief to be brought on behalf of the Secretary in accordance with rule 65 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure when the Secretary establishes that voluntary compliance is unobtainable and prompt judicial action is necessary. Permits the Secretary to file an administrative complaint or refer the matter to the Attorney General for civil action if the investigation supports a finding of reasonable cause, except with respect to matters involving land use controls, which must be referred. Specifies the hearing procedures to be utilized if an administrative complaint is issued. Permits the administrative law judge to award appropriate relief and a civil penalty of up to $10,000. Permits the filing of a position for judicial review of a final order in an appropriate court of appeals within 60 days after entry of such order. Provides that the findings of fact shall be conclusive if supported by substantial evidence in the record considered as a whole. Authorizes the administrative law judge to assess civil penalties for noncompliance with a final administrative order. Makes certain revisions in the private right of action for aggrieved persons under the Fair Housing Act. Extends the statute of limitations from 180 days to two years. Disallows simultaneous administrative and judicial proceedings involving the same charge. Permits the Attorney General to intervene upon certification that the civil action is of general public importance. Continues the current provision permitting the appointment of counsel. Removes the existing $1,000 limit on punitive damages for willful violations. Continues the authority of the Attorney General to initiate civil actions where there is reasonable cause to believe that a pattern or practice of resistance to title VIII rights has occurred. Permits the intervention of aggrieved persons in such actions. Permits the award of costs, including reasonable attorney's fees, to prevailing parties in court and administrative proceedings (current law permits an award of attorney's fees only to prevailing parties who are financially unable to assume them). Directs the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to report to Congress on the need for and cost of retrofitting housing for handicapped persons. Authorizes appropriations for this Act, effective October 1, 1981.

Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1981

Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1981 - Enacts into law the short titles "Civil Rights Act of 1968" and "Fair Housing Act". Amends the Fair Housing Act to expand the definition of "discriminatory housing practice" to include any violation under such Act (thus codifying case law which holds that the obligation of Federal agencies to administer programs affirmatively to further the purposes of fair housing and the prohibition against interference with rights under the Act are separately actionable). Adds new definitions of "handicap" and "aggrieved person". Excludes from the meaning of "handicap" any impairment consisting of alcohol or drug abuse which would be a direct threat to the property or safety of others. Retains the two current exemptions from the prohibition against the discriminatory sale or rental of housing which are given to: (1) an owner of three or less single-family houses; and (2) the owner of a dwelling consisting of four or fewer family units who also resides in such dwelling (the "Mrs. Murphy" exemption). Makes it unlawful to: (1) refuse to sell or rent to a handicapped person unless such handicap would prevent a prospective occupant from conforming to specified non-discrimination rules and practices; and (2) discriminate against a handicapped person in the conditions of sale or rental, or in the provision of related services or facilities. Includes within such discrimination a refusal to: (1) permit reasonable modifications to permit access to the premises (but only if a renter agrees to restore the premises to their original condition); and (2) make reasonable accommodations in policies, services, or facilities to afford handicapped persons equal enjoyment of the premises. Stipulates that such discrimination shall not include a refusal to: (1) make alterations at the expense of sellers, landlords, owners, or persons acting on their behalf; (2) make modifications which would unreasonably inconvenience others; and (3) allow architectural modifications which materially decrease the value of a building or alter its intended use. Makes it unlawful for an insurer to discriminate in the provision or terms of insurance against hazards to a dwelling because of the race, color, religion, sex, handicap, or national origin of persons owning or residing in or near the dwelling. Adds handicapped persons as a protected class under other existing prohibitions on discriminatory activities. Modifies the housing financing discrimination provision to prescribe all conduct which denies or "otherwise makes unavailable" financial assistance because of race, color, religion, handicap, or national origin. Includes with such prohibition persons in the business of selling, brokering, or appraising real property. Establishes the Fair Housing Commission, composed of three members appointed by the President for staggered six-year terms. Stipulates that no more than two members may be of the same political party. Directs the Commission to: (1) appoint administrative law judges and other employees as necessary to carry out its functions; (2) promulgate a code of ethics to assure the independence of such judges; (3) promulgate rules of discovery for its proceedings consistent insofar as practicable with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure; and (4) consider appeals from the proposed orders of the administrative law judges upon application of a party. Includes Federal agencies having regulatory authority over financial institutions within the executive departments and agencies which are currently required to administer their housing programs in an affirmative manner. Authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide financial as well as technical assistance to public and private organizations seeking to remedy housing discrimination. Establishes a new administrative enforcement procedure within the Department of Housing and Urban Development in addition to the current enforcement provisions of title VIII (allowing civil actions by private parties and the Attorney General). Directs the Secretary to make an investigation of all alleged discriminatory housing practices on his or her own initiative or upon the filing of a charge by an aggrieved person within one year of the alleged discrimination. Requires the Secretary to attempt to correct the discriminatory practice by informal methods of conference, conciliation, and persuasion. Requires the Secretary, if the aggrieved person and respondent consent to binding arbitration, to refer the charge to an arbitrator made available by the Community Relations Service of the Department of Justice. Continues the current authority of the Secretary to utilize discovery measures. Retains the current penalty for failing to produce information (up to a $1,000 fine and/or one year's imprisonment). Makes certain changes in the current requirements for referring charges to State or local agencies for investigation and enforcement. (Specifies, with respect to the rights and remedies provided by such agencies, the elements of "substantial equivalency" which permits certification and referrals of discrimination charges. Eliminates the Secretary's authority to recall referrals in the interest of justice or to protect the rights of the parties. Prohibits further action by the Secretary unless the agency fails to act in a timely fashion (current law gives the agency 30 days to commence proceedings). Requires the Secretary and other Federal agencies to cooperate to avoid duplication of their housing discrimination authority. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements to permit other agencies to carry out such responsibilities within their jurisdictions. Directs the Secretary to enter into agreements with specified Federal agencies for such purpose with respect to depository institutions. Permits an action for temporary or preliminary relief to be brought on behalf of the Secretary in accordance with rule 65 of the Federal rules of Civil Procedure when the Secretary establishes that voluntary compliance is unobtainable and prompt judicial action is necessary. Permits the Secretary to file an administrative complaint or refer the matter to the Attorney General for civil action if the investigation supports a finding of reasonable cause, except with respect to matters involving land use controls, which must be referred. Specifies the hearing procedures to be utilized if an administrative complaint is issued. Permits the administrative law judge to award appropriate relief and a civil penalty of up to $10,000. Permits the filing of a petition for judicial review of a final order in an appropriate court of appeals within 60 days after entry of such order. Provides that the findings of fact shall be conclusive if supported by substantial evidence in the record considered as a whole. Authorizes the administrative law judge to assess civil penalties for noncompliance with a final administrative order. Makes certain revisions in the private right of action for aggrieved persons under the Fair Housing Act. Extends the statute of limitations from 180 days to two years. Disallows simultaneous administrative and judicial proceedings involving the same charge. Permits the Attorney General to intervene upon certification that the civil action is of general public importance. Continues the current provision permitting the appointment of counsel. Removes the existing $1,000 limit on punitive damages for willful violations. Continues the authority of the Attorney General to initiate civil actions where there is reasonable cause to believe that a pattern or practice of resistance to title VIII rights has occurred. Permits the intervention of aggrieved persons in such actions. Permits the award of costs, including reasonable attorney fees, to prevailing parties in court and administrative proceedings (current law permits an award of attorney's fees only to prevailing parties who are financially unable to assume them). Directs the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to report to Congress on the need for and cost of retrofitting housing for handicapped persons. Authorizes appropriations for this Act, effective October 1, 1981.

Individual Housing Account Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1981

Individual Housing Account Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an income tax deduction from gross income for cash contributions to a tax-exempt savings account established for the benefit of the taxpayer (or the taxpayer and spouse if married) for the exclusive purpose of purchasing such taxpayer's first principal residence. Limits the maximum annual deduction to $2,500, with a maximum lifetime deduction of $10,000. Excludes distributions from such account from gross income as long as they are used exclusively for the purpose of purchasing the first principal residence of the taxpayer.

Berücksichtigung der Belange von Rollstuhlfahrern im öffentlich geförderten Wohnungsbau (G-SIG: 09041081)

Germany · German Bundestag · 20 February 1981

Freigabe des seit 1975 vorgehaltenen Grundstücks an der Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße in Wiesbaden für den sozialen Wohnungsbau (G-SIG: 09041082)

Germany · German Bundestag · 20 February 1981

Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1981

Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1981 - Enacts into law the short titles "Civil Rights Act of 1968" and "Fair Housing Act." Amends the Fair Housing Act to expand the definition of "discriminatory housing practice" to include any violation under such Act (thus codifying case law which holds that the obligation of Federal agencies to administer programs affirmatively to further the purposes of fair housing and the prohibition against interference with rights under the Act are separately actionable). Adds new definitions of "handicap" and "aggrieved person". Excludes from the meaning of "handicap" any impairment consisting of alcohol or drug abuse or which would be a direct threat to the property or safety of others. Retains the two current exemptions from the prohibition against the discriminatory sale or rental of housing which are given to: (1) an owner of three or less single-family houses; and (2) the owner of a dwelling consisting of four or fewer units who also resides in such dwelling (the "Mrs. Murphy" exemption). Makes it unlawful for a person in the business of insuring against hazards to discriminate in the issuance or terms of hazard insurance contracts because of the race, color, religion, sex, handicap, or national origin of persons owning, or residing in or near, the dwelling. Makes it unlawful to: (1) refuse to sell or rent to a handicapped person unless such handicap would prevent a prospective occupant from conforming to specified non-discrimination rules and practices; and (2) discriminate against a handicapped person in the conditions of sale or rental, or in the provision of related services or facilities. Includes within such discrimination a refusal to: (1) permit reasonable modifications to permit access to the premises (but only if a renter agrees to restore the premises to their original condition); and (2) make reasonable accommodations in policies, services, or facilities to afford handicapped persons equal enjoyment of the premises. States that such discrimination shall not include a refusal to: (1) make alterations at the expense of sellers, landlords, owners, or persons acting on their behalf; (2) make modifications which would unreasonably inconvenience others; and (3) allow architectural modifications which materially decrease the value of a building or alter its intended use. Adds handicapped persons as a protected class under other existing prohibitions on discriminatory activities. Modifies the housing financing discrimination provision to proscribe all conduct which denies or "otherwise makes unavailable" financial assistance because of race, color, religion, handicap, or national origin. Includes within such prohibition persons in the business of selling, brokering, or appraising real property. Provides that it is not a violation of title VIII for real property appraisers to take into consideration factors other than race, color, religion, national origin, sex, or handicap. Expands the exemption provision to permit a minimum lot size requirement unless it is imposed with intent to discriminate against a protected class. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to delegate the function of presiding over administrative hearings to administrative law judges, appointed by the Attorney General and serving in the Department of Justice. Requires that administrative hearings, as well as conciliation meetings, be held in the locality where the discriminatory practices allegedly occur. Sets forth the following provisions to insure the independence of such administrative law judges. Forbids such judges from consulting a person or party on a fact in issue, unless notice and opportunity to participate are given. Prohibits Department employees performing investigatory or prosecutory functions from participating in any decision (except as witnesses or counsel). Requires such judges to be appointed from the administrative law judge register established by the Office of Personnel Management. Prohibits any person from functioning as a judge in such a hearing if within the previous two years he or she has functioned in an investigatory or prosecutory function for the Department. Makes such judges removable only by the Attorney General for good cause as determined by the Merit Systems Protection Board. Includes Federal agencies having regulatory authority over financial institutions within the executive departments and agencies which are currently required to administer their housing programs in an affirmative manner. Establishes a legislative veto procedure with respect to any proposed or existing rule promulgated by any agency under the authority of the Fair Housing Act. Requires proposed rules to be submitted to the Congressional judiciary committees. Provides that such a rule does not become effective if: (1) both Houses of Congress adopt a specified concurrent resolution of disapproval within 90 days of the promulgation; or (2) one House adopts such resolution within 60 days and the other House does not disapprove that resolution within 30 days. Establishes a new administrative enforcement procedure within the Department of Housing and Urban Development in addition to the current enforcement provisions of title VIII (allowing civil actions by private parties and the Attorney General). Directs the Secretary to make an investigation of an alleged discriminatory housing practice on his own initiative or upon the filing of a charge by an aggrieved person within one year of the alleged discrimination. Requires the Secretary to attempt to correct the discriminatory practice by informal methods of conference, conciliation, and persuasion. Continues the current authority of the Secretary to utilize discovery measures. Makes the failure to produce information punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 (current law also permits imprisonment for up to one year). Makes certain changes in the current requirements for referring charges to State or local agencies for investigation and enforcement. Specifies, with respect to the rights and remedies provided by such agencies, the elements of "substantial equivalency" which permit certification and referrals of discrimination charges. Gives an agency to which a referral has been made 90 days, instead of 30, to commence proceedings. Requires the Secretary and other Federal agencies to cooperate to avoid duplication of their housing discrimination prevention authority. Permits an action for temporary or preliminary relief to be brought on behalf of the Secretary in accordance with rule 65 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure when the Secretary establishes that voluntary compliance is unobtainable and prompt judicial action is necessary. Permits the Secretary to file an administrative complaint or refer the matter to the Attorney General for civil action if the investigation supports a finding of reasonable cause, except with respect to matters involving land use controls, which must be referred. Requires the determination of reasonable cause to be made within 270 days of the filing of the charge by an aggrieved person. Specifies the hearing procedures to be utilized if an administrative complaint is issued. Requires the Secretary to certify that conciliation has been attempted before commencement of an administrative hearing. Permits an aggrieved person to intervene in such proceeding. Permits the administrative law judge to award appropriate relief and a civil penalty of up to $10,000, but provides for a five-day period after the conclusion of the hearing for the purpose of conciliation, before such judge may announce any decision. Prohibits the Secretary from modifying an order or decision of the judge. Permits the filing of a petition for judicial review of a final order in Federal district court within 30 days after service of such order. Directs the court to make a de novo determination of the adequacy of the findings of fact and conclusions of law to which objection is made. Permits the court to receive further evidence or recommit the matter to the administrative law judge under certain circumstances. Authorizes the judge to accept, reject, or modify the findings of fact and conclusions of law. Authorizes the administrative law judge to assess civil penalties for noncompliance with a final administrative order. Makes certain revisions in the private right of action for aggrieved persons under the Fair Housing Act. Extends the statute of limitations from 180 days to two years. Disallows simultaneous administrative and judicial proceedings involving the same charge. Permits the Attorney General to intervene upon certification that the civil action is of general public importance. Continues the current provision permitting the appointment of Counsel. Removes the existing $1,000 limit on punitive damages for willful violations. Continues the authority of the Attorney General to initiate civil actions where there is reasonable cause to believe that a pattern or practice of resistance to title VIII rights has occurred. Permits the intervention of aggrieved persons in such actions. Permits the award of costs, including reasonable attorney fees, to prevailing parties in court and administrative proceedings (current law permits an award of attorney's fees only to prevailing parties who are financially unable to assume them). Authorizes appropriations for this Act, effective October 1, 1981.

An original resolution authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1981

Authorizes the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs from March 1, 1981, through February 28, 1982, to: (1) make expenditures from the contingent fund of the Senate; (2) employ personnel; and (3) utilize the services of department or agency personnel on a reimbursement basis. Sets forth the limit on expenses by the Committee during such period.

Mobilisierung privater Investitionen im Wohnungsbau (G-SIG: 09040955)

Germany · German Bundestag · 13 February 1981

Fehlförderung im Wohnungsbau durch Verschiebung der Wohnungs- und Gebäudezählung (G-SIG: 09040627)

Germany · German Bundestag · 6 February 1981

Reduzierung der Kosten im Wohnungsbau und andere wohnungsbaupolitische Maßnahmen (G-SIG: 09040628)

Germany · German Bundestag · 6 February 1981

Zusammenhang zwischen Wohnungsbau und Bevölkerungszuzug in Ballungszentren (G-SIG: 09040680)

Germany · German Bundestag · 6 February 1981

A bill to amend the Mortgage Subsidy Bond Tax Act of 1980 to exempt from the coverage of such Act certain General Obligation mortgage bond issues of the State of Oregon.

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1981

Amends the Mortgage Subsidy Bond Tax Act of 1980 to permit the issuance of tax-exempt mortgage revenue bonds not in conformity with the financing requirements of such Act for qualifying veterans under the direction of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs.

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum amount payable in Veterans' Administration specially adapted housing assistance, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1981

Increases from $30,000 to $35,000 the maximum amount of specially adapted housing assistance available to disabled veterans.

A bill to amend the Mortgage Subsidy Bond Tax Act of 1980 to exempt from the coverage of such Act certain general obligation veterans' mortgage bond issues of the State of Oregon.

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1981

Amends the Mortgage Subsidy Bond Tax Act of 1980 to permit the issuance of tax-exempt mortgage revenue bonds, not in conformity with the requirements of such Act, for financing for qualifying veterans under the direction of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs.

A bill to prohibit the use of Federal housing assistance with respect to certain aliens.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1981

Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980 to prohibit the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from providing housing assistance for the benefit of any alien unless such alien is a U.S. resident and either admitted for permanent residence or lawfully present in the United States under specified conditions (including admission as an asylee or a refugee, or because his or her deportation has been withheld).

A bill to provide that the interest rate on federally insured mortgages under section 203(b) of the National Housing Act shall be the rate charged for uninsured mortgages.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1981

Amends the National Housing Act to require that mortgages insured under such Act by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development bear interest at the rate charged by the mortgagee for non-insured mortgages. Eliminates the requirement that the Secretary consult with the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to determine the interest rate necessary to meet the mortgage market for guaranteed or insured loans to veterans.

Residential Rental Housing Tax Incentive Act of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1981

Residential Rental Housing Tax Incentive Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer to elect to depreciate residential rental property under the straight line method based on a period of 120 months if the original use of such property begins with the taxpayer or 240 months in any other case. Exempts residential property, residential rental property, and low-income housing from the requirement that construction period interest and taxes related to such property be amortized instead of deducted currently. Expands eligibility for accelerated depreciation of rehabilitation expenditures for all types of rental housing, not just low-income rental rehabilitation expenditures. Increases the eligible amount of depreciable low-income housing rehabilitation expenditures to $30,000. Eliminates provision for recapture of depreciation for rehabilitation expenditures.

Individual Housing Account Act of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1981

Individual Housing Account Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for cash contributions to a savings account created or organized for the benefit of the taxpayer (or the taxpayer and spouse if married) for the exclusive purpose of purchasing the taxpayer's first principal residence. Limits the maximum annual deduction to $4,000, with a maximum lifetime deduction of $20,000. Provides that there is no maximum yearly income for eligibility in the program. Limits to 20 percent the amount of the total yearly contribution which may come from earned income. Limits all members of a family to one individual housing account until each member is dependent and files separate tax returns. Allows only one account to be applied against the purchase of a single dwelling. Excludes distributions from such account from gross income so long as they are used exclusively for the purchase of a first principal residence. Provides for recapture of such distribution upon a subsequent sale of such first residence if another house is not purchased with the proceeds.

Uniform Relocation Assistance Act Amendments of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1981

Uniform Relocation Assistance Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 to require the head of any Federal agency that administers, or provides financial assistance to a State, State agency, or individual for, a program or project which will result in the forced displacement of any person, to provide relocation benefits to such person. Increases the maximum amounts of optional fixed payments for moving expenses and dislocation benefits for displacement from dwellings, farms, and businesses. Eliminates the $15,000 limitation on the Federal payments (exceeding acquisition costs) required to replace a dwelling of a displaced person who owned and occupied such dwelling. Includes in such payments compensation for any increased real property taxes to be incurred by such person during the life of the mortgage of the replacement dwelling. Doubles the maximum payment required for replacement housing expenses for displaced tenants. Declares that the assurances required of relocation assistance advisory services concerning the availability of replacement housing shall: (1) be made prior to Federal approval of a project; (2) be based upon careful analysis of the housing needs of the persons to be displaced and the availability of housing; and (3) include plans for housing replacement by the Federal agency if comparable replacement sale or rental housing is not available. Prohibits a Federal agency from funding any project unless the responsible State, State agency, or individual assures the availabilty of appropriate replacement housing at least six months prior to displacement. Directs the President to designate an agency to establish uniform regulations governing land acquisition and relocation assistance for use by Federal agencies and recipients of Federal assistance. Authorizes such agency to conduct hearings as requested by any aggrieved person to resolve differing agency interpretations of such regulations. Directs the agency to adjust dollar figures for relocation benefits to account for inflation. Authorizes the owner of property to be acquired by the Government to require a second appraisal of the property value. Requires the head of an agency to offer to purchase property which has lost its value because of the agency's acquisition of other property so that the adversely affected owner or occupant would qualify for relocation benefits.

Donald I. Hovde, of Wisconsin, to be Under Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Victor Marrero.

United States · United States Senate · 30 January 1981

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to allow a deduction for expenses incurred by a taxpayer in making repairs and improvements to his residence, and to allow the owner of rental housing to amortize at an accelerated rate the cost of rehabilitating or restoring such housing.

United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1981

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a nonitemizing taxpayer to claim an income tax deduction for expenses incurred in making repairs and improvements to his principal residence. Limits the amount of such deduction to $750 for the taxable year. Allows an income tax deduction with respect to the amortization of the adjusted basis of rental housing which is rehabilitated or restored by its owner. Bases the amortization on a period of 60 months.

Low Income Housing Emergency Tax Act of 1981

United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1981

Low-Income Housing Emergency Tax Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to delay until 1984 the application to low-income housing of the provision for amortization of real property construction period interest and taxes.

A bill to amend section 802 of title 38, United States Code, to increase specially adapted housing benefits for certain seriously service-connected disabled veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1981

Increases the adapted housing benefit ceiling for veterans with specified permanent and total service-connected disabilities.

A bill to amend the United States Housing Act of 1937 to enable local public housing agencies to enter into security arrangements designed to prevent crimes and otherwise insure the safety and well-being of public housing tenants.

United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1981

Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make annual contributions to enable public housing agencies to enter into security arrangements designed to prevent crimes and to insure the safety and well-being of public housing tenants. Authorizes appropriations.