Texas Senate Bill SB1730

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the administration by the General Land Office of money allocated to this state from the national Housing Trust Fund.

Impact

By mandating the GLO to develop rules and an allocation plan, SB1730 seeks not only to enhance the distribution process but also to ensure alignment with federal guidelines and state priorities. The allocation plan must include a competitive process for distributing funds and ensure that rent and utility costs do not exceed 30 percent of a resident's income, ultimately promoting long-term affordability in housing.

Summary

SB1730 aims to establish a framework for the administration of funds received by Texas from the National Housing Trust Fund. The bill articulates the responsibilities of the General Land Office (GLO) in distributing these funds, specifically targeting individuals and families categorized as extremely low income and very low income. The intent is to create a structured program that ensures the money is allocated effectively and reaches the individuals and families that need it the most.

Contention

While the bill has been generally well received by advocates of affordable housing, some concerns may arise regarding the implementation of eligibility criteria and the prioritization of projects. This could lead to debate over how effectively the GLO can manage the allocation process and whether the established rules will adequately serve the varying needs across different regions in Texas.