Texas Senate Bill SB1991

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the administration of federal funds under the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act.

Impact

This legislation aims to redistribute federal funds more equitably within the state, emphasizing support for small towns and rural regions that may struggle to access necessary resources for affordable housing. By doing so, SB1991 hopes to mitigate the disparities in housing assistance across Texas, particularly benefiting marginalized communities. This adjustment in fund allocation could lead to increased housing opportunities and community development initiatives in areas that historically receive less attention in federal funding processes.

Summary

Senate Bill 1991 addresses the administration of federal funds provided under the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act. The bill outlines new procedures for allocating these funds in Texas, primarily focusing on the needs of non-participating small cities and rural areas that do not directly qualify for federal grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It mandates that 95 percent of the allocated funds are directed toward these areas and establishes a set-aside allocation for persons with disabilities, ensuring a minimum of 5 percent is specifically earmarked for this group.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1991 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents who advocate for enhancing support for small communities and individuals with disabilities. Supporters argue that the bill is a step in the right direction toward a more equitable distribution of resources. However, there are concerns expressed by some stakeholders regarding the potential bureaucratic complexities that may arise from the new allocation rules and whether these changes will effectively meet the urgent housing needs of all Texans.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the requirement that the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs must not preferentially allocate funds to nonprofit housing providers unless mandated by federal law. This aspect indicates a tension between different types of housing providers, where for-profit entities could gain more access to funding than traditionally favored nonprofits. This shift has raised questions about the effectiveness of the bill in addressing the specific needs of vulnerable populations and whether it could lead to longer-term challenges in ensuring affordable housing availability.