Bill > HR68

This bill aims to address housing discrimination by establishing a comprehensive nationwide testing program and increasing funding for fair housing initiatives. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) would be required to conduct extensive testing to detect and document discriminatory practices in housing and mortgage lending, focusing on disparities based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability status, and national origin. The bill authorizes $15 million annually from 2024 to 2028 for this testing program and increases funding for the Fair Housing Initiatives Program to $42.5 million annually, with specific allocations for private enforcement initiatives and education programs. Additionally, the bill establishes a competitive grant program providing $5 million annually to support public and private nonprofit organizations in studying housing discrimination, with a focus on understanding its causes and effects, particularly for veterans and military personnel. The legislation requires HUD to submit biennial reports to Congress on testing outcomes and study results, and includes provisions to ensure transparency and accountability. Importantly, the bill prohibits the use of these funds for political activities, advocacy, or lobbying, ensuring that the resources are directed specifically toward addressing housing discrimination and promoting fair housing practices.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/68/all-info