Streamlining Rural Housing Act of 2025
This bill requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) relating to housing projects. The MOU aims to streamline the adoption of environmental impact statements and assessments, establish a joint physical inspection process for housing projects funded by both agencies, and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of such projects.
Key Points
- Evaluation of categorical exclusions for housing projects funded by HUD and USDA
- Development of a process to designate a lead agency among HUD and USDA
- Streamlining the adoption of environmental impact statements and assessments
- Maintaining compliance with environmental regulations
- Evaluation of the feasibility of a joint physical inspection process
- Establishment of an advisory working group for consultation on the implementation of the MOU
- Submission of a report to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and the Committee on Financial Services within one year after enactment
Details
The bill aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of housing projects funded by both HUD and USDA without reducing the safety of residents, shifting long-term costs onto them, or undermining their environmental standards. The advisory working group will consist of rural and non-rural stakeholders, including affordable housing nonprofit organizations, State housing agencies, home builders, property management companies, public housing agencies, residents assisted by HUD or USDA, housing contract administrators, and others.
Source: https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/BILLS-119hr4989ih
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