Mississippi Senate Bill SB2502

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Neighborhood Housing Rehabilitation Program (NHRP); direct Mississippi Home Corporation to establish using federal funds.

Impact

The bill allows the Mississippi Home Corporation to utilize federal funds, specifically from the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs, to finance the assistance provided under the NHRP. This creates a platform for municipalities to improve properties, ensuring they meet applicable building codes and standards. The initiative promotes community improvement and could lead to enhanced property values and neighborhood revitalization.

Summary

Senate Bill 2502 aims to establish a Neighborhood Housing Rehabilitation Program (NHRP) administered by the Mississippi Home Corporation. The program is designed to assist municipalities in offering financial support to owner-occupied residents to rectify health and safety issues within their homes. Priority for assistance is given to households with incomes at or below fifty percent of the area median income, thereby targeting low-income residents to enhance living conditions and increase energy efficiency.

Contention

Discussions around SB2502 highlight concerns regarding the allocation and effectiveness of funds directed to local municipalities. Some skeptics question whether the program can effectively address the diverse needs of households across different communities. Additionally, while the bill aims to solve pressing housing issues, there is apprehension about the long-term sustainability of such financial assistance programs and whether they will truly lead to lasting improvements in housing conditions.