Us Congress House Bill HB123

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23

Caption

Alternative Data for Additional Credit FHA Pilot Program Reauthorization Act This bill establishes a pilot program for an additional credit rating system for use by mortgage lenders. Specifically, the program must utilize one or more commercially available credit scoring models that apply additional credit information about borrowers who have insufficient credit histories for purposes of determining their creditworthiness for mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration.

Impact

The proposed bill modifies the existing framework for evaluating borrower creditworthiness by mandating that the Secretary of the Department gather and assess data through newly designated credit scoring systems. This shift could potentially reshape how mortgage lenders assess risk, allowing individuals with limited or no credit history to participate in the mortgage market. By enabling more people to access FHA-insured loans, the legislative action is likely aimed at diversifying home ownership and supporting economic growth.

Summary

House Bill 123, titled the 'Alternative Data for Additional Credit FHA Pilot Program Reauthorization Act', seeks to establish a pilot program under the National Housing Act aimed at providing borrowers with insufficient credit history an option to use additional credit information for obtaining mortgages. This program intends to enhance the accessibility of mortgage loans for such borrowers by allowing lenders to utilize alternative credit scoring models that incorporate additional data.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include debates over the reliability and accuracy of alternative credit scoring models and concerns about the potential risks they pose to the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund. Critics may argue that relying on less traditional forms of credit evaluation could expose lenders and borrowers to additional financial risks. Furthermore, maintaining equilibrium between access to credit and safeguarding the integrity of federal insurance programs remains a significant concern among lawmakers.