Us Congress House Bill HB2273

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23
• Refer: 3/29/23

Caption

To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for US Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Programs, Rural Housing Service, Rural Housing Insurance Fund Program Account for fiscal year 2024.

Impact

If enacted, HB2273 would significantly affect the federal funding landscape for rural housing initiatives. By limiting the funds available for the Rural Housing Service and associated programs, the bill could hamper the ability of these services to respond to housing needs in rural areas. Critics may argue that this limitation could lead to reduced support for housing development projects, impacting low-income families and underserved communities that rely on these resources for affordable housing options.

Summary

House Bill 2273 seeks to impose a cap on the funds available for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for specific Rural Development Programs, targeting the Rural Housing Service and the Rural Housing Insurance Fund Program Account. The proposed limitation for the fiscal year 2024 is set at a maximum of $1 billion. This legislative move aims to address budgetary constraints and ensure that funds are allocated more effectively across various programs managed by the USDA.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2273 primarily focus on the potential consequences of such a funding cap. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary for fiscal responsibility and prioritizing essential government spending, while opponents raise concerns about the long-term implications for rural housing stability and development. This debate highlights an ongoing tension between budgetary discipline and the urgent housing needs of rural populations, reflecting the broader challenges faced in balancing fiscal constraints with social welfare objectives.