H.R. 5889: Eviction Helpline Act

The Eviction Helpline Act is a piece of legislation that aims to support tenants facing eviction, particularly those living in housing units that receive federal assistance. Here’s a breakdown of what the bill proposes:

Purpose of the Bill

The core purpose of the Eviction Helpline Act is to establish a hotline that provides assistance to tenants regarding eviction-related issues. This hotline must be implemented within one year following the enactment of the bill.

Hotline Implementation

The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is tasked with the responsibility of creating this hotline. The goal is to ensure that tenants in federally assisted rental dwelling units can access information and support related to eviction.

Funding for the Hotline

The bill also allocates funding for the continuation of the hotline's operation. It authorizes the necessary appropriations for the fiscal year 2026 and beyond, allowing for ongoing support to maintain the hotline and its services.

Terminology Used in the Bill

To clarify the content of the bill, a few key terms are defined:

• Assistance: This refers to various forms of financial support, such as grants, loans, or subsidies, but does not include loan insurance or guarantees.
• Covered Federally Assisted Rental Dwelling Unit: This includes residential units that are made available for rent and receive assistance under federally managed programs, such as public housing, rental assistance programs, and various housing development initiatives.
• Secretary: This term refers specifically to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

Target Audience

The hotline is particularly aimed at tenants living in properties that are supported by specific federal programs, including:

• Public housing programs
• Section 8 rental assistance
• The HOME Investment Partnerships program
• Supportive housing programs for the elderly and persons with disabilities
• Programs under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
• Native American housing programs

Conclusion of Content

The Eviction Helpline Act seeks to bridge a gap for tenants in need by providing a pathway to access information and support during potentially stressful eviction processes. By establishing an easily accessible hotline and ensuring funding for its operation, the bill aims to aid those in federally assisted housing sectors and to promote better communication about eviction rights and resources.

Relevant Companies

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