H.R. 5907: To authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to award grants to eligible entities to select pre-reviewed designs of covered structures of mixed-income housing for use in the jurisdiction of the eligible entity, and for other purposes.

This bill aims to support the construction of mixed-income housing by providing grants from the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to eligible entities. Here’s a breakdown of its main features:

Definitions

The bill establishes several definitions to clarify its provisions:

• Affordable housing: Housing costs should not exceed 30% of the monthly income for households earning 80% or less of the area’s median income.
• Covered structure: Refers to low-rise or mid-rise buildings with up to 25 dwelling units, such as duplexes, triplexes, and townhouses.
• Eligible entity: Includes local governments, municipal organizations, and Indian tribes.
• Mixed-income housing: Developments catering to various income levels.
• Pre-reviewed designs: Construction plans pre-approved for meeting local standards to expedite housing development.

Grant Authority

The Secretary of HUD is authorized to award grants to eligible entities. The grants are intended for selecting pre-reviewed designs for mixed-income housing, but cannot be used for actual construction or repairs.

Considerations for Grant Applications

When assessing grant applications, the Secretary will prioritize:

• The need for affordable housing in the applicant’s jurisdiction.
• The presence of high opportunity areas.
• Coordination between the eligible entity and state agencies.
• Collaboration with transportation planning authorities.

Set-aside for Rural Areas

At least 10% of grant funds must be allocated to eligible entities in rural areas, promoting equitable support across different regions.

Reporting Requirements

Entities receiving grants must report on:

• How the grant has impacted affordable housing production and supply.
• The specific pre-reviewed designs chosen for their communities.
• The issuance of permits for developments using these designs.
• The total number of housing units built with these pre-reviewed designs.

Information Availability

The Secretary is encouraged to make information about pre-reviewed designs publicly available and to share best practices through the HUD’s website.

Design Adoption and Repayment

If selected designs are not adopted within 5 years, the Secretary may require the return of grant funds, although this period could potentially be extended.

Authorization of Appropriations

The bill authorizes necessary appropriations to support its activities and allows for up to 5% of the funds to be designated for technical assistance to grant recipients.

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