Representative Al Lawson (D-FL) introduced on July 12 the “HUD Inspection Oversight Act” (H.R. 3745) (H.R. 3745) to increase transparency and strengthen enforcement of the inspection process for project-based rental assistance housing (PBRA). Other original co-sponsors of the bill are Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC) and Val Demings (D-FL).
The bill would create higher physical condition standards for PBRA housing and provide HUD with greater enforcement authority to tackle health and safety concerns. Under the bill, HUD would work with tenants or tenant organizations to develop public remediation plans and timetables if property owners fail to address issues identified during inspections. HUD can then impose various penalties, such as fines or termination of contracts if owners do not correct the issues. To increase transparency, HUD would be required to publish a quarterly report of all properties with unsatisfactory reviews.
“It is my firm belief that everyone should have access to decent, safe and affordable housing regardless of their income or zip code,” said Representative Lawson. “We’ve seen HUD properties in dilapidated conditions pass inspection, and this is absolutely unacceptable. This bill will provide much-needed transparency in the inspection process and strengthen enforcement actions against property owners who fail to maintain their properties.”
Read more about the bill at: https://tinyurl.com/yyzkdnfv