Bill > S2423

This bill requires the Secretaries of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Agriculture to collaborate on improving housing project processes within 180 days of enactment. Specifically, they must create a memorandum of understanding to evaluate environmental categorical exclusions for housing projects, develop a process for designating a lead agency to streamline environmental impact assessments, maintain existing environmental regulations, and explore a joint physical inspection process for housing projects funded by both agencies. The bill also mandates establishing an advisory working group comprising diverse stakeholders from the housing sector, including nonprofit organizations, housing finance agencies, builders, property managers, housing owners, public housing agencies, and residents. Within one year of enactment, the Secretaries must submit a report to congressional committees with recommendations for improving housing project efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring that any proposed changes do not compromise resident safety, increase long-term resident costs, or weaken environmental standards. The goal is to reduce bureaucratic barriers and improve coordination between HUD and the Department of Agriculture in rural and urban housing development.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2423/all-info