NLIHC urges advocates to submit comments on HUD’s proposed improvements to existing regulations regarding affirmatively furthering fair housing choice (AFFH). The deadline is Tuesday, September 17 at 11:59 pm ET. Advocates can submit their comments at http://1.usa.gov/15qducpOn July 19, HUD published a proposed rule intended to improve regulations for states, local jurisdictions, and public housing agencies that must comply with the Fair Housing Act’s requirement to affirmatively further fair housing. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 prohibits housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, or handicap, the “protected classes” of people. It also requires HUD program participants to take steps to actively overcome historic patterns of segregation and to promote fair housing choice.NLIHC has posted a section on its website to assist advocates in developing their comments and suggestions. The tools include a sample comment letter, summarized and detailed descriptions of the proposed rule, and materials from other organizations. These include a link to the National Fair Housing Alliance’s AFFH webpage and a draft sign-on letter from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities addressing proposed AFFH changes to the PHA Plan. Go to NLIHC’s AFFH webpage: http://nlihc.org/issues/affhIt is very important that HUD receive many comment letters supporting the proposed rule, but with constructive comments for improving it in its final form.