No Free Rent for Freeloaders Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), on an annual basis, to monitor the extent of noncompliance of public-housing tenants with certain community service and economic self-sufficiency requirements, determine the aggregate amount provided in federal subsidies for all public-housing dwelling units that were occupied by noncompliant tenants, and publish this amount in the Federal Register. In each fiscal year, the amount as determined and published for the preceding fiscal year must be rescinded from funds made available for HUD's Management and Administration account.
If passed, this bill would result in a reallocation of federal funds intended for management and administration of HUD, effectively penalizing the department for any shortcomings in compliance enforcement. Specifically, the amount determined to be wasted on subsidies for noncompliant tenants would be rescinded from HUD's budget. This change signifies a shift towards greater scrutiny of public housing programs and their effectiveness in promoting self-sufficiency among tenants.
House Bill 113, titled the 'No Free Rent for Freeloaders Act of 2023', seeks to enforce compliance among public housing tenants regarding community service and self-sufficiency requirements mandated by law. Under this bill, the Inspector General of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is tasked with annual assessments of public housing agencies to determine the extent of noncompliance. The bill underscores the importance of accountability in public housing programs, and aims to ensure that tenants engage in community service to qualify for public assistance.
Significant points of contention surrounding HB 113 revolve around its potential to penalize innocent tenants who may be unable to comply with the requirements due to circumstances beyond their control. Critics argue that the bill could exacerbate existing challenges for vulnerable populations relying on public housing while proponents claim that it is a necessary measure to protect taxpayer resources and ensure that public housing serves its intended purpose. The discussions around this bill reflect broader debates over welfare reform and the role of government in housing assistance.