H.R. 4810: Better Use of Intergovernmental and Local Development for Housing Act

This bill is known as the Better Use of Intergovernmental and Local Development for Housing Act, or the BUILD Housing Act. It proposes changes to the way environmental reviews are conducted for certain assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Below are the key components of the bill:

Environmental Review Procedure Designation

The bill allows the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to designate specific funding assistance under HUD as a special project for environmental review purposes. This designation is in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other related laws.

Exceptions to the Designation

While the bill enables the designation of assistance as discussed above, there are exceptions. The designation will not apply to funding assistance for which there are existing specified procedures to carry out the Secretary's responsibilities under NEPA and related laws.

Tribal Involvement in Environmental Reviews

The bill also amends the Multifamily Housing Property Disposition Reform Act of 1994 to expand the entities that can take on environmental review obligations. Specifically, the bill includes Indian Tribes alongside states and local governments, allowing federally recognized tribes the ability to assume these responsibilities.

Definition of Indian Tribe

For clarity, the bill defines "Indian Tribe" as a federally recognized tribe, referring to the definition provided in the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996.

Implications of the Bill

By facilitating a more streamlined process for environmental reviews and involving Indian Tribes in these processes, the bill aims to help enhance housing development initiatives while ensuring they comply with environmental regulations.

Relevant Companies

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