Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
This bill establishes new protections and requirements for tenants receiving federal rental assistance to organize and collectively advocate for their housing conditions. The legislation applies to roughly two groups: tenants using Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and residents in low-income housing tax credit properties. The bill requires housing agencies and landlords to recognize tenant organizations, respond to tenant concerns within 30 to 60 days, and permit organizing activities such as distributing leaflets and holding meetings on-site. It prohibits retaliation against tenants and organizers, with a legal presumption of retaliation if adverse actions occur within 180 days of organizing activity. The bill funds tenant outreach and technical assistance through grants to nonprofit organizations, including $1 million in expedited funding, and provides $40 per unit annually to resident councils. Tenants gain the right to sue in federal or state court to enforce these protections, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development must establish an enforcement protocol and submit quarterly compliance reports to Congress within one year of enactment.
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