Copyright: Orhan Cam
The House unanimously approved the “Housing Opportunities through Modernization Act of 2015” on February 2 by a vote of 427-0. NMHC and NAA urged members of the House to support this vital reform bill. We also joined with a coalition of real estate groups, and a coalition of advocacy and industry organizations, in advocating for the legislation’s support. In light of the unanimous vote, we are hopeful that the momentum built in the House translates to action in the Senate, but timing is uncertain.
Specifically, the bill would streamline the Section 8 voucher program’s property inspection process by allowing immediate occupancy if the apartment home has been inspected within the past 24 months. This would reduce the length of time an apartment is vacant and limit move-in delays for residents. The legislation would also extend the contract term for project based vouchers from 15 to 20 years.
Funded by HUD and administered by local public housing authorities, the Section 8 voucher program has long served as America’s primary method of rental assistance. Two million very or extremely low-income families are housed in the private market annually through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program.
Staff Resource
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