Bill > HR4989

This bill requires the Secretaries of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Agriculture to collaborate on improving rural housing project processes within 180 days of enactment. Specifically, they must create a memorandum of understanding to evaluate environmental policy exceptions for housing projects funded by both agencies, develop a streamlined process for designating a lead agency in environmental impact assessments, maintain existing environmental regulations, and explore a joint physical inspection process for housing projects. The bill also mandates establishing an advisory working group composed of diverse stakeholders including affordable housing nonprofits, housing finance agencies, builders, property managers, housing owners, public housing agencies, and resident representatives. Within one year of enactment, the Secretaries must submit a report to congressional committees with recommendations for improving housing project efficiency and effectiveness, with a crucial caveat that any proposed changes cannot compromise resident safety, shift long-term costs to residents, or undermine environmental standards. The goal is to reduce bureaucratic complexity and improve coordination between federal agencies in rural housing development.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4989/all-info