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Community Development and Housing News: April 1, 2024

The VA allows PHAs to apply to serve as Designated Service Providers for HUD-VASH vouchers; HUD releases two HOTMA resources for residents, a report on housing survivors of human trafficking, and information on the upcoming Innovative Housing Showcase; the DOJ publishes a tenant resource on background checks.

Recent News

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PHAs Can Apply as HUD-VASH Designated Service Providers

Updated guidance from the Department of Veterans Affairs allows PHAs with unleased HUD-VASH vouchers to apply to serve as Designated Service Providers (DSPs) for veteran selection, intake, and temporary case management. PHAs serving as DSPs will be able to issue HUD-VASH vouchers without a referral from the VA. The PHA must refer veterans to the VA for case management if eligible and maintain enough vouchers to accommodate referrals from the VA as well. Read more

 

HUD Posts HOTMA Resources for Residents

A HOTMA Resident Fact Sheet and Worksheet on Asset and Real Property Limitations are now available on the HUD Exchange resources library. Directed at families in public housing or HCV programs, the fact sheet explains new rules and exceptions limiting assets and real property, and the worksheet is a planning tool to help residents organize their asset information. Read more

 

Justice Department and Others Jointly Issue Resource on Protections for Rental Housing Applicants and Tenants

The Department of Justice has released a fair housing resource for rental applicants and tenants about rights under federal law related to background checks. Published in conjunction with the Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and HUD, the resource covers how background checks work and what to do in the event of illegal discrimination during a background check. Read more

 

HUD Releases First-of-Its Kind Report to Congress on Housing Needs of Survivors of Human Trafficking

A new report released by HUD assesses housing and services for survivors of trafficking or people at risk of being trafficked who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Submitted in response to the 2022 reauthorization of VAWA, the report examines, among other things, approaches to outreach, barriers to fair housing, and best practices for affordable housing agencies. Read more

 

HUD’s Innovative Housing Showcase Returns to the National Mall

The Innovative Housing Showcase, held June 7-9, will highlight cutting-edge solutions and advancements in housing design, technology, and sustainability. Exhibits will include prototype homes and building technologies addressing affordability and resilience. Read more

 

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