H.R. 8185: Housing Emergencies Lifeline Program Act of 2026

The Housing Emergencies Lifeline Program Act of 2026 (or HELP Act) aims to address eviction issues by creating a comprehensive system for data collection, providing financial assistance, and enhancing tenant rights and resources. The bill includes several key components:

1. Database of Eviction Information

The Act requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to develop a database that collects information on evictions from federally assisted dwelling units. This database will include annual reports from states and local entities containing details such as:

• Reasons for eviction and any rent arrears.
• Details about the eviction process, including representation by legal counsel.
• Demographic details of affected individuals such as race, income, and disability status.

Moreover, the data collected will be organized in a way that respects privacy and anonymity, while allowing for research into the underlying causes of evictions.

2. Eviction Protection Grant Program

This legislation establishes a grant program to provide legal assistance to low-income tenants at risk of eviction. Key points include:

• Eligible entities for grants can include non-profits and government organizations.
• Grants must be used for legal support at no cost to eligible tenants.
• Priority will be given to applicants that target high-eviction areas and demonstrate experience in assistance provision.

3. Consumer Report Amendments

The bill proposes amendments to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which will limit the inclusion of eviction-related information in consumer reports. Specifically, evictions or past due rent will not negatively impact consumer credit reports starting from the date of the Act's enactment.

4. Tenant Information Requirements

The Act mandates that owners of covered federally assisted rental units must provide tenants with information regarding their rights and local resources annually and whenever an eviction notice is issued. This aims to enhance tenant awareness of their rights and available support services.

5. Establishment of a Hotline

A hotline will be set up to assist tenants in eviction-related matters. This service will include:

• Support in multiple languages to accommodate non-English speakers.
• Accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
• Information about legal rights and available local resources.

6. Definitions of Key Terms

The bill includes definitions of various terms used throughout, clarifying what constitutes covered housing and legal assistance, among others. This aims to ensure consistency and understanding of the Act's provisions.

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