Housing Innovation Act

The Housing Innovation Act would create a new Office of Housing Innovation within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This office would administer grant programs to support three main areas: planning efforts that address housing needs in urban areas, research and studies to help local governments develop housing and community development plans, and outreach programs focused on housing, community development, and regional planning issues.

If enacted, this bill could help cities and local governments better plan for housing development and community needs by providing federal funding and research support. The bill also requires the Government Accountability Office to evaluate how well these grant programs work. Currently, the bill has been introduced in the House and referred to committee, where it may be under active consideration before any full chamber vote.